Colorectal Cancer Symptoms

Question: Colorectal Cancer? I've been plagued with Rectal bleeding over 1 month. Finally got up the nerve to go see doc, and he scheduled me for colonoscopy. Won't know result of that until 11/14. Who wants to wait that long? My hair is growing like crazy, and I've lost 20lbs since 3/2007. Are there any other physical symptoms associated with colon cancer? There are no changes in bowel habits. Do I have reason to worry?

Answer: Rectal bleeding Best-case scenario: Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the bowl is important but can wait until a routine doctor's visit. The cause may be hemorrhoids or a fissure (tear in rectal tissue from straining). Worst-case scenario: If the blood is black or maroon and tarlike, this is a medical emergency such as a bleeding ulcer, bleeding diverticulitis, or other colon problem, or colon cancer. Note: The iron in vitamin supplements and in certain vegetables can color the stool black. So can Pepto-Bismol. Yours still could be very simple do not just jump into "CANCER MODE" AS you have requested ....symptoms of Colon cancer Word About Colon Cancer Symptoms: Colon cancer does not always present symptoms. Colon cancer symptoms sometimes do not appear until the disease has progressed into an advanced stage. Bleeding - Blood in Stool: This is the most commonly experienced colon cancer symptom. As a tumor grows larger, the passage of feces can cause the tumor to bleed. it is common to see blood if the tumor is near the anus, but it is much more common for the blood to be hidden inside the stools. Weight Loss: An unexpected weight loss accompanied by other symptoms can indicate colon cancer. The pain and discomfort caused by a tumor can lead to loss of appetite, which in turn results in weight loss. Changes in Bowel Habits: If you are consistently constipated or have diarrhea, this must be evaluated by a physician. Changes in bowel habits also include gas and producing thinner stools. Thinner stools are usually the result of a tumor obstructing the passage of feces. This is one of the more common colon cancer symptoms. Abdominal Discomfort: Abdominal discomfort can mean many things - bloating, swelling, cramping and feeling full. Abdominal Pain: Swelling and pain of the abdomen are also symptoms of colon cancer. This usually occurs when the intestine is blocked by a tumor. If the tumor grows large, then nausea and vomiting can occur. Fatigue: Fatigue is a symptom of many cancers. It can also be a symptom of many other conditions that aren't cancer related. Fatigue experienced with cancer can be mild or severe. Talking to Your Doctor: Many people feel shy to talk about bowel habits with their doctor, especially women. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, I can't stress how important it is to always talk to your doctor. FAST !! I would not worry if it was REALLY something they would call you and move up your apptment ASAP. Or you could call the office and find out what the results were before your visit. as simple as them saying Pos or NEG.... just call and find out.... Waiting is more stressful then results most times. Best of luck

Question: Should I be worried? Colorectal Cancer ? Well im only 15, but when I go to the bathroom, you know empty your stool. Well anyways Sometimes I go, I get bleeding(kinnda red) in my stool. I have 3 out of 7 symptoms of Colorectal Cancer, I went to my family doctor about this before, but she never really gave me a full answer, all she told me was to "eat healthier & more Excersise" and I was like "okay, but does that make the bleeding stop?" but then all she said was "just eat healthier and more excerise" I been excersising 30 mins a day, and lots of fruits, But I still bleed in my stool once in awhile, & I KNOW its from my stool because I didnt urine, and just ended my pms. Should I be worried? ALOT of my family members have this, but they seem to be okay? but im still worried, This only started this year, I never had this before, Should I go back to the doctors? but its so uncomfortable when I go, because the last time I went they had to check me -.- Is there anyone out there that has this too? and can help me out?

Answer: If you are not happy with the information your doctor has given you, go back and ask them what they believe it is. Did your doctor mention piles (hemorrhoids) or did she find any little cuts around your back passage as these are common reasons for finding blood in the toilet or on the paper when you wipe. Did your doc advise the fruit etc because you are constipated, because if you are that can cause the little cracks or fissures to occur when trying to go, as everything can be overstretched to the point of splitting. I am 51 now but when I was your age I had the same thing, in fact I got off the loo at school one day to find the loo full of blood and this was down to being constipated a lot and having hemorrhoids, one of which was bleeding. I was told I was too young to have them treated and finally had them injected to shrink them when I was 18. This was extremely painful and I wish I had tried harder to eat more fruit and veg. So depending on what you doctor came up with, go back if you are not happy.

Question: Besides bloody stools, what other symptom most commonly sent colorectal cancer victims to the doctor? In other words, excluding a very bloody bowel movement, what is the other common complain that people who are then diagnosed with colorectal cancer, brought to the doctor, since blood in the stool can be caused by many things and 99 percent of the time is diagnosed as something other than cancer ( although blood in the stool you should ALWAYS see a doctor no matter what)...Anyways i had a friend who had constant diahrrea, and he was getting it everyday for a while, and his bowel movements where in crazy amounts daily...like 4-6 plus in a day, everyday in the form of diahrreah...so i was just wondering..he was also a rare case as he is under 30 years of age!!( and 90-95% of colon cancer patients are aged 50 or older statistically) , but is fine now though thanks to modern medicine. anyways this has been on my mind lately, and im pretty young to think of this stuff as my doctor told me ...(19), but i always worry about this stuff for some reason.

Answer: There are 10 main symptoms of colo-rectal cancer. I think the pain is probably the other symptom that brings most people to the doctor. Here are the symptoms: 1. blood in BM 2. changes in habits: going more or less often 3. stomach cramping and/or bloating 4. unexplained weight loss 5. thinner BMs (skinnier "logs") 6. feel like you have to go but don't 7. gas 8. anemia 9. unexplained vomiting 10. chronic fatigue It is wise to be educated about the symptoms but please don't worry about it. Since you know what to look for, just keep it in your store of knowledge and don't focus on it. Enjoy your life! Remember, your friend was an exception and I am glad he saw a doctor and is now doing well.

Question: could somebody please help me, for i fear i have cancer.( colorectal). ? i'm 42 years old, and for the last 10 years i've been having trouble emptying my bowel, here in the past few years i get some bleeding too.i can never keep clean underwear because i can't complete my bowel fully. after i use the stool, through the course of the day i can actuall feel some my bowel seeping from my stool to my under shorts. are these symptoms of cancer? i'm very afraid someone please help.

Answer: Any change in your normal elimination pattern should be explained. Since you have symptoms, you will need a Diagnostic colonoscopy. This means most insurance will cover it, even though you are younger than the normal age of 50 for this exam. If they say NO, then appeal on the grounds you have symptoms that need evaluation. And afterwards, imagine the peace of mind you will have to find out that it is likely something simple (fixable) that has been causing your worry and discomfort all this time.

Question: Is it possible to get colorectal cancer in your early 30's? I have no family history of it but I do have a possible symptom..i was just curious if anyone knew

Answer: Yes. If you are worried about it go get it checked out right away. Early detection can mean a huge difference in your end result. A colorectal surgeon can do a few tests that could put your mind at ease.It could be that you just have a polyp or diverticulitis.

Question: i believe i may have cancer (colorectal). please help me? i'm 42 years old, and for the last 10 years i've been having trouble emptying my bowel, here in the past few years i get some bleeding too.i can never keep clean underwear because i can't complete my bowel fully. after i use the stool, through the course of the day i can actuall feel some my bowel seeping from my stool to my under shorts. are these symptoms of cancer? i'm very afraid someone please help.

Answer: Don't ask here, get to a doctor for an exam. It is cureable when caught early.

Question: Colorectal Cancer check? Is the only way to check if you have it is by a colonoscopy? Or whatever it's called. Because I'm scared that it might hurt. I have all the symptoms of that cancer except bleeding. Help please... Thanks. Yeah, I'm 14. It's constipation that I have. I get it a lot. But Today even have abdominal pain and I've noticed 2 symptoms of that Cancer that I have. Like when I do #2 [Lol] I have that mucus thing when I wipe that I never knew what it was and vaginal discharge when I'm no where near my period. So yeah...

Answer: You sound too young for colon cancer 0.1% occur in people under 20 years old and bleeding is one of the important symptoms. There are far more likely causes for your symptoms. See your doctor he or she will probably not recommend a colonoscopy.

Question: Any other young colon / colorectal / bowel cancer survivors? I'm 20 and have just finished chemo for bowel cancer. I experienced quite a few of the symptoms, including tingling in hands and feet, darker skin on hands and feet and exhaustion, and have a temp ileostomy, which should be reversed soon. I was just wondering, how long before your body went back to normal? And have you had any issues with fertility?

Answer: i used to have black tarry stools but thats because i had pepto bismol and that changes ur bowel colour i had a fecal occult blood test and it came back fine yet i still feel like i cant finish a bowel movement im 18 and my family hasent had a history of this at a young age but i want to get a colonoscopy cause im not sure if a fobt would show all of it

Question: Any other young colon / colorectal/ bowel cancer survivors? I'm 20 and have just finished chemo for bowel cancer. I experienced quite a few of the symptoms, and have a temp ileostomy, which should be reversed soon. I was just wondering, how long before your body went back to normal? And have you had any issues with fertility?

Answer: At 42 and had Stage 4 appendiceal cancer classified under colon cancer that spread to bladder, and ovaries and also have an ileostomy. I had a 13 1/2 hour operation at Sloan Kettering. I can't answer the fertility question because I had a full hysterectomy but I can tell you it took about 4 months to recover from the first operation but I had 6 weeks of chemo and radiation together before the operation and 6 months chemo after.The reversal took me about 4 weeks. You got youth on your side so it may not even take that long. Stay strong and stay positive. Praying for you!

Question: I think i have colorectal cancer? i am a 16 the risk of having it isn't high but i got some of the symptoms. 1st i eat lots of junk food and don't get fat but also don't lose it the fat. 2nd i feel gases all the time and fart a lot. 3rd when i do my Business i don't have blood in my waste but when i go to wipe my ass starts to bleed. 4th i have don't have diarrhea but do have like my waste isn't soild and like dog poo. 5th i have high iron. 6th i used to have long thing waste. 7th and i take about 30 mims on the loo. so could i have colorectal cancer? and this has been going on for a year

Answer: No you don’t have cancer and nothing has changed since the last time you asked. “The risk of having it isn't high� it is almost zero. You still do not have symptoms of it. Have you talked to your mom about it yet?

Question: Could I Possibly Have Cancer? I don't see how I could, I am 16 and have only been smoking for two years, however I have always known that I have an extremely weak body and I fit a lot of the symptoms for Colorectal Cancer. My question is, is it possible or likely for me to have cancer at this age? Please be honest as it is important that I know. My symptoms are random vomiting/nausea, random weight loss, diarrhea and occasional bloody feces... etc.

Answer: You don't say what your symptoms are. That would help. I have to caution you about going on on line and looking up symptoms for anything because different diseases can manifest the same symptoms. If that's what you're doing that is. One thing I tell everyone and I will go on saying it. Age has nothing to do with cancer, because cancer doesn't care how old you are. We have a hospital in our state just for children with cancer. That's why it really bugs me when ppl will answer a question and say "You're to young for cancer" They should visit this hospital. I took care of a baby, 18 months old who had cancer of the eye. Anyway, Colo rectal cancer can be detected through a colonoscopy and not even a DR will tell you if you have it without that test. Many ppl will have some of the general symptoms of colorectal cancer but those can be the same for stomach virus or bug. I don't want to insult you, but are you one of those ppl that thinks every symptom they hear about pertains to you? My daughter is like that. She drives me nuts thinking she has everything on the planet. She is a hypochondriac. Your best bet is to present your symptoms to your DR and see what he says because you don't tell us what they are. Relax, take a deep breath and think it over. Stress over this is only going to cause you other problems. What are your symptoms? Be blesses

Question: Colon cancer or Colorectal cancer? I'm 20 5'9 198lb for about a month i been getting some weird symptoms I'm never hungry and eat a little bit and I'm full for the whole day. losing weight fast. burping for 2 weeks and feel like regurgitating sometimes. abdomen cramps. Diarrhea but make my hemorrhoid burn after going.

Answer: I do not think you need to worry of any cancer in view of the symptoms mentioned by you, though some of them relate to Colon cancer too. It is highly essential at this stage to have a check up by a good doctor and to evaluate the actual positon. Please do the needul immediately. However, I give below the sign and symptoms colon cancer for your information only - Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (colon), the lower part of your digestive system. Rectal cancer is cancer of the last 6 inches of the colon. Most cases of colon cancer begin as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called adenomatous polyps. Over time some of these polyps become colon cancers. Polyps may be small and produce few, if any, symptoms. Regular screening tests can help prevent colon cancer by identifying polyps before they become cancerous. If signs and symptoms of colon cancer do appear, they may include changes in bowel habits, blood in your stool, persistent cramping, gas or abdominal pain. Signs and symptoms of colon cancer include: -A change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool for more than a couple of weeks -Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool -Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain -Abdominal pain with a bowel movement -A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely -Weakness or fatigue -Unexplained weight loss -

Question: Question about colorectal cancer? One of the symptoms is thin stools which are the result of a blockage in the bowel. If the tumor is near the end of the large bowel, the stools will already be formed right? Reason I ask is about a day before I need to have a bowel movement there is an uncomfortable feeling in the lower left abdomen. Sometimes I can hear gas belching inside in that area and it all comes out at once, making me think there could be a blockage there. The discomfort and pressure feeling could be the stools getting through a tight spot before it gets to the rectum. I'm going to ask my doc about this at the end of the month, because I had some heavy bleeding a few days ago with two bowel movements. Sometimes I have really dry hard stools and I think these are the ones that cause the discomfort. When I have 'moist' stools they come out really thin which could mean they are shaped easily because they're soft. I dunno!

Answer: you juts may want to see him now if you can

Question: I read that a symptom of colon cancer is bloody stools....Just how bloody do these stools look to cause alarm? Im 18 and a bit of a hypochondriac....are small red spots on the tip of my stool blood or is it just a normal color....just wondering...I know colorectal cancer is almost nonexistant in people my age but im still always concerned...

Answer: The doctor told us that red blood is usually an indication of a 'fresh' wound and so originates in the lower colon. If the blood is black or tarry than it has digested and comes from the stomach. Possible causes for red blood are hemorrhoids, Crohns Disease, IBS, and Ulcerative Colitis/Proctitis. Colo-rectal cancer is possible in your age group, although very rare. Mostly older people in their fifties get colon cancer. But younger people, teens, and children can have colo-rectal cancer especially if they develop multiple polyps. If there is a history of colorectal cancer in the family there is an additional risk. http://www.teenhealthfx.com/answers/Health/3696.html You should have a colon cancer screening and a complete physical to rule out cancer and narrow down what is causing the bleeding. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/colon-and-rectal

Question: Why are doctors reluctant to order tests for patients? I am a 28 year old white male with symptoms that seem to reflect either colorectal cancer or IBS. My doc gave me a blood test and a stool culture and said everything was fine. He then gave me some meds for IBS. Why is he so reluctant to order a colonoscopy? Why is it in his interests not to recommend the test?

Answer: You've been reading the internet, haven't you... It is vanishingly unlikely, barring certain genetic conditions, for a 28-year-old to have colon cancer. I also don't know what your symptoms were or what medications you have been prescribed. There are also different kinds of IBS and I don't know what your doctor may have in mind--perhaps he is trying a diagnosis by treatment, which is actually not altogether a bad idea in terms of figuring out what's going on--if you get better on the medication, then he's treating the right condition. There is a small but very real danger (mostly of perforation and infection) to an invasive test like a colonoscopy, which is probably why your doctor is reluctant to send you for one. It is not that it is not in HIS interests--he may not feel that it's in YOUR best interest. If you want further investigation or even just further reassurance that you are getting the correct treatment, perhaps it would be warranted to see a GI specialist. I have never considered the cost of a test I considered necessary for a patient. I do consider whether or not the test will change my management of the patient--if I wouldn't change anything I'm doing because of another CT scan, there is no reason to expose the patient to radiation; if I see that a patient is getting clinically better on antibiotics for a urinary tract infection, I don't have to re-catheterize the patient to prove that the urine is now sterile. More tests does not always equal better medicine.

Question: How can I get Free or Inexpensive health insurance? Im 15, and for the past month, I've had an internal hemorrhoid. When I first read about the symptoms I've been having and found out that it was a hemorrhoids, I immediatly started trying to make it better. I've been eating lots of fiber/drinking tons of water, exercising more, improving my posture, everything. But, no matter what I do, it still hurts when I defecate, and there is sometimes even blood. The first time it happend, I told my mom. She doesn't care. She just told me to use alcohol after I go. I've read more about them and how they can lead to colorectal cancer, if gone too long without being treated. Once again, I told my mom. I told her that I needed to see a doctor, all she does is tell me that its ok, it'll go away, It's too expensive to go to the doctor. She told me she tried to get health insurance, but I was denied... For the past month, I've been thinking... "Is money worth more than my health...?" Is there anything I can do?

Answer: We "spoke" on you last questions about your heart beats....If you are 15 yrs old you are considered a minor. Most states have programs minors can receive health care for free or very low cost. You need to ask the school nurse (or a teacher your trust) to help you with your health situation. If your parent is not willing to get you appropriate health treatment or a minimum of a physical to assess what is "truly the problem" vs "self diagnosis" then you need to seek help from another trusted adult. *L*