my colon worries

[Anth268]

about 5 weeks ago I started getting discomfort in my left abdomen and my toilet habits changed I was going 3 or 4 times a day and my poop was extremely runny, my Doctor sent me for a blood test and a stool sample which both came back clear, my poop now looks quite normal but some days I’m going twice a day, and I’m still getting discomfort mostly in my left lower abdomen but occasionally in my right side too, I’m going back to my doctors but does this sound like it could be colon cancer.

[Anth268]

I had a colonoscopy 4 years ago and had four benign poylops removed and I’m sure diverticulitis was mentioned

[Alloagirl in reply to Anth268]

Hi Anth28, pain in the left side could be the diverticulosis. I also have that. Good thing to go back and see your doctor perhaps he/she will send you for another colonoscopy. Only this will see the problem. There are many reasons for what you are suffering, but best to put your mind at rest and get the test done. I hope you can stop worrying about cancer, best of luck.

[LinC1]

hi

I had something similar - pain mostly left side, stools soft and ‘mushy’ rather than loose. I had 2 negative qFIT’s and decided to go privately to see consultant. Had full exam + an abominal + pelvic CT. Nothing found - as I’d been caring for a seriously ill partner, and had dramatically changed my diet - went pretty much vegetarian/almost vegan overnight - it’s been put to high stress, increased fibre etc causing spasms! Because CT + qFIT was fine, I didn’t get colonoscopy (Dr said it wasn’t clinically indicated + has its risks attached) Things are settling (pain much less). What I’m trying to say is, don’t always think the worst as anxiety can actually increase symptoms. Go to Dr, get it checked - it’s scary to do that, but only way to get answers. Xx

[GCCA-Survivor Administrator]

Hi Anth268,

Thanks for posting. Hate to hear you're having these issues. You definitely have some symptoms going on that need answers. You've gotten some good comments already and I agree it's time to get to the doctor and get it checked out.

I see you had a colonoscopy 4 years ago and diverticulitis was mentioned. The lower left side of the abdomen is the usual site of the pain. Sometimes, however, the right side of the abdomen is more painful. If you are experiencing this again, then it's time for updated answers. You'll probably need another colonoscopy to get to the bottom of this.

Question: 4 years ago, were you put on a regiment of treatment for your symptoms then?

Also, as a part of my surveillance procedures, I get an annual colonoscopy. I had stage 4 colon cancer. So you getting another colonoscopy within 4 years isn't out of the norm especially when you need answers now. So please see the doctor and get your answers so you'll have some direction in getting better.

I wish you all the best. Please let us know what you find out. It can be helpful to others on the site as well.

~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.

[Shanless]

Does the pain ease or get worse with a bowel movement. If it does then possibly it could be IBS.