Worried about colon Cancer

[Lc06091]

Worried about Cancer:

Hey guys, I am a 21 year old male from Georgia. I’d say roughly 1-2 months ago I beg and experiencing full aches on both the right and left sides of my lower abdomen/pelvic region. These come and go and don’t really seem to be caused by anything specific. I have also noticed that my bowel movements have become less frequent and more narrow in general but sometimes I also have more normal bowel movements. Last weekend I was at the beach and noticed that my stools was bloody. The first time it happened there was blood in the surface of the stool and some drops in the toilet as well as when I was whipping. It happened again the next day, but not as severely. I haven’t had any noticeable bleeding since then. I made an appointment with my doctor and due to my age he didn’t seem to concerned about cancer but I’m a habitual worrier and can’t get it out of my head. I was hospitalized roughly 11 months ago, and underwent a abdominal and pelvic CT, of which no significant gastrointestinal findings were seen. What do you guys think could be a possible cause to all of this? I also infrequently experience a pretty sharp pain which I would equate to a sort of electric shock feeling in my rectal area, but can tell the source of the pain is coming from inside. I am going to do the FIT stool test and send that off on Friday, but am worried that these are not always reliable. What are the odds that the CT 11 would have missed this possible lesion? Also, when I drop off the stool sample, should I push for the colonoscopy? One other thing to note is that I have what I would consider an undiagnosed eating disorder. I frequently starve myself of both food and water for periods of time and I am not sure if this could have any bearing or cause of my symptoms. I know this is probably a lot of information but I am just worried to death.

[Tranquility248]

I believe that your gastroenterologist needs to diagnose you. Could be diverticula could be ibs or colitis..unfortunately you do not know until you receive a colonoscopy. But you have to be honest regarding your undiagnosed eating disorder as well.

[GCCA-Survivor Administrator]

Hi Lc06091,

Thank you for posting in Colon Cancer Connected.

If you are having pelvic issues and sharp pain after a clear CT, I would definitely get the colonoscopy. That would a good way to keep your anxiety down and get some answers. You are seeing a lot of symptoms that need to be sorted out. You also have to be honest with your doctor about your eating disorder.

I wouldn't be too surprised if the FIT came back positive as you already described blood in your stool. So don't let that be cause of worry.

You are young, but don't accept that as a diagnosis to your issues. You're clearly having the issues and need to get some answers.

Also, there are a lot of things the CT cannot pick up where a colonoscopy can. Given my cancer history, I get a colonoscopy and a CT scan annually as part of my surveillance procedures.

Tranquility248 gave you some good advice.

We wish you the very best. Please let us know what you find out from your doctor visit. These things can be informative and help others that may have similar issues.

Thank You,

~Tom, GCCA Survivor - 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.

[Alloagirl]

Hi, It is good you are getting a FIT test. I personally have found them quite accurate. You need the colonoscopy to see what is going on in there. Not everything is cancer. But the sooner diagnosed the sooner you get the treatment you need. Good luck and push for that colonoscopy.

[BalanceBlind]

You shouldn't simply worry, because projecting such thoughts causes stress, which is a natural stimulant for the growth of cancerous tumors. However, you should just do a bowel examination and then you will definitely get an accurate reading. just in case, I would recommend that you use the dca guide from this page dcaguide.org/ . Also consult your doctor about it. Good luck to you, friend.