Could This Be Colon Cancer? Symptoms and Concerns

Could this be colon cancer?

Three weeks ago, I noticed blood streaks on toilet paper after wiping, which lasted for two days.
I also felt my heart racing, had some difficulty breathing, and it took a long time to fall asleep at night.
After that, the blood did not appear again, but sometimes when I stand up, I experience a moment of dizziness.
I'm not sure if this is due to anemia.
Later on, I felt some discomfort in my anus when sitting, and I had a persistent urge to have a bowel movement.
Currently, the anal pain has decreased, but the urge to defecate still exists.
Sometimes I experience lower abdominal pain, and I feel like I'm more easily short of breath than before.
I weighed myself today and found I was about 0.4 kilograms lighter than yesterday, but I haven't exercised and my appetite is still good.
I also noticed what seems to be red blood in my stool, although there was none on the toilet paper.
What could this situation indicate?

Awei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/25

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

This situation likely indicates a higher possibility of hemorrhoidal bleeding.
As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a concern.
It is recommended to avoid constipation during this period and to shorten the time spent on bowel movements.
Warm sitz baths may also help alleviate symptoms.
You can purchase over-the-counter hemorrhoid suppositories, but it is best not to take laxatives indiscriminately.
At this age, increasing the intake of dietary fiber and fluids should be sufficient.
If bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/08/25

More Info

Based on the symptoms and concerns you've described, it is understandable to be worried about the possibility of colon cancer or other gastrointestinal issues. Let's break down your symptoms and provide some insights into what they might indicate.

1. Blood on Toilet Paper: The presence of blood on toilet paper can be alarming. It can result from various causes, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or more serious conditions like colorectal polyps or cancer. Since you mentioned that the blood appeared for two days and then stopped, it could suggest a less serious issue, but it still warrants further investigation.

2. Abdominal Pain and Discomfort: The discomfort in your lower abdomen and the sensation of needing to have a bowel movement can be associated with several conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even early signs of colorectal cancer. The fact that you have experienced abdominal pain intermittently is something to take note of, especially if it persists.

3. Changes in Weight: A sudden change in weight, even if it is slight, can be a sign of an underlying issue. While a 0.4 kg loss in a day may not seem significant, if it continues or is accompanied by other symptoms, it could indicate a problem. Weight loss in the context of gastrointestinal issues can sometimes be linked to malabsorption or changes in appetite.

4. Feeling Lightheaded and Shortness of Breath: The sensations of lightheadedness and difficulty breathing could be related to several factors, including anxiety, dehydration, or even anemia, particularly if you have been experiencing blood loss. Anemia can occur when there is chronic blood loss, which can happen with conditions like colorectal cancer.

5. Persistent Bowel Urgency: The feeling of needing to have a bowel movement frequently can be distressing and may indicate an underlying gastrointestinal issue. This could be related to inflammation, infection, or other conditions affecting the colon.

Given these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider will likely recommend a thorough evaluation, which may include:
- A Physical Examination: This will help assess any abdominal tenderness or other physical signs.

- Laboratory Tests: Blood tests can check for anemia or other abnormalities.

- Colonoscopy: This is a critical diagnostic tool that allows direct visualization of the colon and rectum, enabling the physician to identify any polyps, tumors, or other abnormalities.

- Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging studies like a CT scan may be necessary to evaluate the abdomen further.

In summary, while your symptoms could be indicative of various conditions, including benign issues like hemorrhoids or more serious concerns like colon cancer, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. Early detection and diagnosis are key in managing any potential gastrointestinal issues effectively. Please do not delay in seeking medical advice, as timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

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