advice

[laurie22]

Hi, I’m just looking for some advice. Recently my bowel habits have changed drastically .. I am often feeling the urge to go to the toilet even if I can’t do anything or do very little & if I’ve just been to the toilet. I’m going from being constipated to the opposite and I just over all feel very uncomfortable. Is this normal? I’ve been googling my symptoms and it suggests a colonoscopy but I am 22 so don’t think this is available to me. Any help is appreciated

[laurie22]

forgot to mention I get a lot of mucus ( sorry tmi ) but so far no blood

[bantam12]

You need to see your GP and ask for stool tests then if they come back showing inflammation or blood you should be referred for a colonoscopy.

[laurie22 in reply to bantam12]

Thanks for the reply, I’m going to phone my gp tomorrow

[GCCA-Survivor Administrator]

Hi laurie22,

Thanks for posting with us. First, you made a statement that is very real but troublesome as well. Yes, you are young and that is very advantageous. But your statement “googling my symptoms and it suggests a colonoscopy, but I am 22 so don’t think this is available to me” should not be in the discussion. Unfortunately, some healthcare systems do us statistics in diagnosis. In reality, the symptoms should drive the diagnosis no matter the age. So, please do not accept any diagnosis based on your age. Demand the symptoms be diagnosed and treated. Never accept that something could not be happening based on your age. Make them focus on the symptoms.

Second, bantam12 is correct. And you are doing exactly what you need to be doing. Your symptoms could be caused by many different things. You just need to narrow it down so you can focus on the issue. Get it checked out at your GP. Another thing to note is if there is any history of hereditary disease in the family. This is good info for your GP to know as it could lead to further testing that can be beneficial. At the GP, you should be taking a FIT test to look if there is blood present. There may not be blood present, but inflammation may be an issue. It just needs to be narrowed down so you can get on a definitive plan to being well.

We do wish you the best in finding answers. You are all over this. Yes, you are young but never accept a diagnosis based on that. Focus on symptoms. Advocate for yourself. And please let us know what you find out from the GP. It is that kind of information that can be helpful to others as well.

All the best,

~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.