I have always had severe constipation, and aways told I have IBS-C. Eventually it got so bad no matter what I ate or drank, I resorted to taking laxatives way too frequently. Stool softeners alone didn’t help. I’ve already had a colonoscopy and endoscopy done few years ago and they said there was irritation but that was it and to eat better. I went to the doctor again bc I knew the laxatives would eventually make things worse. She gave me medicine to take for a month that helped me go and since then I go every morning but it’s very very dark and mushy, some have been tar-like and almost black but not all the time. But always mushy. And I still have to push hard even though it’s mush/liquid.. sorry tmi. But I’ve been waiting for them to schedule another colonoscopy like they said but they haven’t and I haven’t called to tell them my poop has changed because I don’t know if it would make a difference. I have constant stomach aches and nausea. I’m always tired. I just want to feel better.
Should I push for a colonoscopy sooner? - Colon Cancer Conn...
Should I push for a colonoscopy sooner?
Thank you for replying! I do have a lot of issues with anxiety and I think it does make my stomach problems worse. The doctor I saw wanted to do another colonoscopy to check for damage to my colon from the overuse of laxatives she said.
But since I’ve seen her I have had black stool, but I haven’t had any visible red blood.
But I also haven’t taken a laxative in several months now!
I hope it hides the image unless you click on it... not sure how to do that but this is how my stool regularly looks now.
Images are hidden by default on this community.
Good heavens, get back to gp!!! show her your pic. This isn’t right!
I had constant constipation due to pain meds had a ct colonoscopy..found nothing I've changed my diet to fibre fruit each morn more water etc and its helped alot..its norm diet related I had a fit test as blood in my stools but they found nothing...try the diet and up your fibre and fruit as much as u can hope this helps jx
Hello Ambjtb ,I'm sorry to read about your constant stomach aches and nausea and constipation. This sounds very uncomfortable and miserable.
It is important that you let your specialist know about the change in stool color and consistency.
It sounds like you were given a prescription medication to treat your constipation, is that correct? If so, did the doctor tell you that a change in the consistency of your bowel movements was a possibility?
As you probably already know, if any screening that is not a colonoscopy (stool DNA test, FIT, iFOBT, Virtual Colonoscopy) comes back as abnormal, the next step is a colonoscopy. Colonoscopy is a procedure that is not used only for ruling out or diagnosing colorectal cancer - it is also how doctors measure other digestive diseases.
If your doctor has recommended another colonoscopy to see if there has been damage from the use of laxatives, that is something that you should consider and discuss with your doctor. As with all invasive procedures, particularly those that involve sedation, there are risks involved that you should discuss and understand prior to having the procedure.
Are you on any medication (either prescription or over the counter) that might not be causing constipation, but could be making it worse? There are many over the counter and prescription medications that are used to treat things that are not related at all to a gastrointestinal disorder that can cause constipation, or, if you already are prone to constipation, these medications can make it worse.
Any type of supplements, even protein powders or vitamins that you take, should be something that you share with your specialist.
Many people have had success and relief from IBS-C through a combination of diet changes, exercise, and medication. It is difficult to find that balance and can be frustrating, as well.
Have you seen this group on HealthUnlocked? Lots of members post frequently and are very knowledgeable about IBS through their own experiences. healthunlocked.com/theibsne...
Please do get in touch with your gastroenterologist. I hope you find some relief soon!
~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.
Blood in stools once a while 
sessile polyp
Colonoscopy & CT scan
Terrified.....
