.
Hi y'all, Had a dark red, mucousy blo... - Colon Cancer Conn...
Hi y'all, Had a dark red, mucousy bloon of blood on the surface of my semi soft stool? Freaking out...someone please advise! Terrified o
Hello pozo ,Thank you for posting in Colon Cancer Connected. I'm sorry that these symptoms are causing you anxiety. As hard as it is, try to not let the anxiety get to you too much. (I know that it is a lot easier said than done!). Our GI systems are very sensitive to stress and anxiety and can make symptoms worse.
This site does not offer medical advice, but we are here to share our experience and offer our advice. It should not replace speaking to your doctor. However, we recommend that you speak to a medical professional to find out for sure if there is blood in the stool and any issues.
There are many reasons for blood in the stool, some are very treatable with medication, diet change, and minor procedures, and of course, there are more serious reasons for blood in the stool as well. For that reason, we always advise patients to seek medical care when they have blood in the stool.
Depending on where you live and your insurance, you may start with a call to your primary care doctor. And with COVID, that may mean a video or phone call instead of an in-person office visit. There are stool tests that your doctor can order and bloodwork that your dr. can do, and that may determine if they refer you to a specialist. Your doctor may take a medical history including asking if any family members have had colorectal (bowel) cancer.
Before you speak to your doctor, be sure to have written down a list of all medications that you are currently taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements. Often, patients with GI issues will also keep a food journal to track food and beverage intake, bowel movements, any pain or bleeding, etc. This could be useful information for your doctor. Additionally, it could show you a pattern (for instance, possibly being lactose intolerant, if you experience diarrhea after eating dairy).
Please don't put off contacting your doctor. The best thing you can do right now is to reach out to your healthcare provider to get checked out. Again, there are many reasons why you may be experiencing these symptoms, so try not to get ahead it and as best you can - go with the process. It will take time to get tests performed so waiting can be one of the hardest parts. We're here for you - please keep us posted.
~Nicole, GCCA Staff Member & Colon Cancer Connected Site Administrator.
Just a reminder - this group is here to offer support, share experiences, and offer our thoughts - but this is not medical advice, and you should always consult your medical professional(s). Additionally, for all emergencies, seek urgent medical care, never delay.
Did you try to go for a colonoscopy?? Because I had that as well and went for colonoscopy
Since you had a GI appointment, any checks or scopes to find out more?