Negative FIT but still worried

[mac197701]

Hi— Thanks for any advice you can give. I have dealt with constipation for a few years, basically during my second pregnancy and after. About a month ago I did both the DIY FIT test, and the one in my doctor’s office (so 4 stool samples) and all came back negative. However, I’m still suffering from constipation. Lately, after I take Miralax, I’ll have one normal BM and then 3 or 4 smaller, thin ones. I’m also getting pain in the vaginal area when I have to go.

My question is, how likely is it to have colon cancer after a negative FIT? I’m 43 with two young kids and major anxiety over this.

Thanks so much.

[Nicole_GCCA Partner]

Hi mac197701 ,Thank you for posting in Colon Cancer Connected.

I'm sorry to read that you are experiencing anxiety and feel something is off - and that's so important to listen to your body.

Many many people who post in our group are sure that they've got colon cancer, and thankfully, most of the time they do not. HOWEVER, because colorectal cancer is so treatable and even preventable in many cases, we are firm advocates in screening and continuing to work with healthcare teams if you still feel that something is not right.

We do believe that if something is "off" it is very important to get it checked out. Sometimes that means changing Doctors. If you do not feel that your Doctor is taking your health concerns seriously, they may not be a good fit to be overseeing your medical care.

Besides constipation, what were the symptoms that led you to request a FIT (or did the Dr. bring it up?)

Curious if you :

Are of screening age (newly lowered to 45 in the U.S.!)

Have a family history of colorectal cancer

Were experiencing symptoms?

This site does not offer medical advice, but we are here to share our experience and offer our advice, but it should not replace speaking to your doctor. Again, when something seems "off" or you are experiencing bowel movements or other symptoms that are abnormal for you, it is important to be examined by a doctor.

Looking forward to your response.

Many thanks,

~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.

[mac197701 in reply to Nicole_GCCA]

Hi—

Thanks for the response. I am 43, so not of screening age yet. No first degree family members with colon cancer. My doctor did the FIT because I asked due to my health anxiety. No symptoms except for long-running constipation. Of course, now I’m seeing symptoms everywhere, from skinny stools to mucous. No blood, no anemia. I only get the skinny stools when I take Miralax, and then I go all day.

Thanks for any advice. Dr. Is willing to send me for a colonoscopy if I think I need one, but he doesn’t think I do.

[aysedeniz]

İt is good to be anxious sometimes. Constipation problems started when i was at yout age. I m now 65 and i have cancer. Do you have hemoroids or fistule. Do you walk half an hour everyday. How much water do you drink. Do you eat red meat????

[MOLLYMILO007]

Hi I too sufer constipation had a positive fit test I was beside my self with worry had a colonoscopy they found nothing I feel some people have a lazy bowel..sometimes genetic..I just try to up my fibre and fruit and the odd movicol..try not to worry its more than likely nothing but constipation ..are u on hrt are u menopausal as this sometimes interferes with bowels if u have a weak pelvic floor I have a bladder prolapse this impacts my bm.s. I'm on hrt and use a kegal 8 to strengthen my pelvic floor..something to consider if u have a prolapse u may not know if its mild hope this helps xx