28 is it too soon to get tested

[Kjojo999]

I have no family history of colon cancer, I have recently started to feel symptoms close to ibs. I have bladder problems that is Interstital cystitis and was searing Info that some people can develop ibs. But I don’t think this was ibs the more I researched my symptoms. First I had severe constipation that follow with palpitations at night so I’d have to exercise take fiber and laxatives. I suppose maybe I wasn’t drinking enough water or so because I had terrible abdominal cramps pain. That follow with me having rectal bleeding and pain in my anus. Went the constipation on for maybe 2-3 weeks. Then went away as well the bleeding. But notice my poop where oddly shape pencil thin and now having to poop more frequently. Also following that is some weight loss. My doctor when I first spoke to him about or mention I needed to drink water and fiber if needed to take laxatives. But that was all. I am worried seen that I do not eat too healthy and have borderline high cholesterol.

[Nicole_GCCA Partner]

Hi Kjojo999 ,Thank you for posting and I'm sorry to read about the symptoms you are experiencing.

The short answer is that no, there is no longer any truth to the "you're too young for colon cancer." 90% of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer are over the age of 50, but there has and continues to be an increase of younger people diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

I do not say that you cause you anxiety - but it is important that when discussing what type of tests your doctor will perform to determine what is going on with you and how to address your symptoms, that testing for colorectal cancer is discussed.

Has your doctor examined you, or was this a discussion over the phone?

When you experience blood in the stool, the doctor will often perform a DRE (digital rectal exam) where they will both look and feel with their gloved fingers, to see if an any anal fissure (tears in the anus), hemorrhoids, or something else that could be causing the bleeding. Depending on the DRE results, any symptoms you are experiencing, and age, your doctor will determine if further tests need to be performed.

There are many possible chronic conditions that could cause the symptoms you are experiencing. It is also possible that you are experiencing an allergy or a reaction to an environmental factor, medication or food. Try not to get ahead of the diagnosis, but definitely do seek out a doctor to be examined.

If your doctor is hesitant to perform tests, please ask what the reason is - and ultimately, if you feel your doctor is not taking your health concerns seriously, you may want to consider getting a second opinion.

Please keep us posted and keep on top of ensuring you get checked out. There are so many potential reasons why you are experiencing symptoms, it is absolutely worth it to make an appointment with your primary doctor, or if you already have one, a gastroenterologist.

~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.