Do i have bowel cancer

[Anonymouss13]

Hi im a 22 year old female and the past 2 weeks ive had severe abdominal and stomach pains, feeling of discomfort that feels like trapped gas but it doesnt go away when i go toilet. Could i have bowel cancer ? I have bad bealth anxiety and i dont know if im just freaking out help please x

[ling]

Are u constipated?

Have u seen a doctor?

[Wexford1968]

That doesn’t seem like bowel cancer ,

[Nicole_GCCA Partner]

Dear Anonymouss13 ,Thank you for posting and I'm sorry to read about what you are experiencing as well as the anxiety it is causing you.

Only a medical professional will be able to determine if you have bowel cancer - and separate from that concern, it sounds like you are in pain and that needs to be addressed. Anxiety unfortunately can make gastrointestinal symptoms worse, our gut is very sensitive to stress and anxiety.

Please contact a medical professional and make an appointment to be seen. Depending on your examination and review of your medical and family history, the doctor may recommend tests to determine what is causing your symptoms.

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.

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).

The best thing you can do now, which I hope will help ease your anxiety, is to see a doctor. And if you need any encouragement to make that call, we're here for you and many of our caring members of this forum will help give you the boost you need to make that call!

~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.