Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?

Continuous upper abdominal pain with blood streaks in stool today?

Hello, doctor.
Due to long-term late nights, I am very concerned about my health.
I have been experiencing abdominal pain for about five consecutive days, specifically in the area below my ribs.
The pain is mild and comes and goes, but it makes me feel uncomfortable overall.
My bowel movements were relatively smooth before, but in the past few days, there have been gaps of 2 to 3 days between them.
Today, I noticed blood streaks on the toilet paper during a bowel movement, and I have never had hemorrhoids.
This makes me worry about the possibility of colon cancer or something similar.
I had irritable bowel syndrome in middle school, and I wonder if there is any correlation.
Thank you for your response.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/24

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

At the age of 21, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is not zero, but generally speaking, it is very, very low.
Based on your description, it seems more like hemorrhoidal bleeding.
As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a concern.
I recommend avoiding constipation during this period and shortening the time spent on the toilet.
Warm sitz baths may also help alleviate symptoms.
You can purchase over-the-counter hemorrhoidal suppositories, but it's best not to take laxatives indiscriminately at this age.
Increasing your intake of dietary fiber and fluids should be sufficient.
If bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/10/24

More Info

When it comes to abdominal pain and the presence of blood in the stool, it is understandable to be concerned about serious conditions such as colon cancer, especially given your history of gastrointestinal issues and family history of cancer. However, it is important to approach this situation with a clear understanding of the potential causes and the appropriate steps to take.

Firstly, the symptoms you describe—intermittent abdominal pain and blood on toilet paper—can arise from a variety of conditions, not just colon cancer. The abdominal pain you are experiencing, particularly located under the rib cage, could be related to several factors, including gastrointestinal disorders, muscle strain, or even stress-related issues, especially considering your mention of long nights and potential fatigue.
The presence of blood in the stool can also stem from multiple sources. In many cases, blood on toilet paper may be due to hemorrhoids or anal fissures, which are common and can occur even in individuals who have not previously experienced these conditions. These issues can arise from straining during bowel movements, which may be more likely if you have been experiencing irregular bowel habits, as you mentioned having a gap of 2-3 days between bowel movements.

Your history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) could also play a role in your current symptoms. IBS can lead to changes in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort, and sometimes even the presence of mucus or blood in the stool due to irritation of the intestinal lining. While IBS itself is not a direct risk factor for colon cancer, it can complicate the clinical picture and lead to anxiety about more serious conditions.

Given your family history of colon cancer, it is wise to be vigilant about any gastrointestinal symptoms. While your symptoms do not definitively indicate colon cancer, they warrant further investigation. The best course of action would be to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. This may include a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and possibly diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy, especially considering your age and symptoms. A colonoscopy is a valuable tool for visualizing the colon and can help identify any abnormalities, such as polyps or tumors, that may require further attention.

In the meantime, it may be beneficial to monitor your diet and hydration, as well as manage stress levels, which can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. Increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help promote regular bowel movements and may alleviate some discomfort. Staying hydrated is also crucial, as it can help prevent constipation and reduce straining during bowel movements.

In summary, while your symptoms could be concerning, they are not exclusively indicative of colon cancer. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a comprehensive assessment and guide you through the necessary steps for diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and intervention are key in managing any potential health issues, so do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

Similar Q&A

Blood in Stool and Urine: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?

That day, my stool was hard and appeared golden yellow, but the toilet was filled with blood, and the toilet paper was also stained with blood. I also noticed blood in my urine that day. Later in the evening, the symptoms eased. Now, on the second day after the incident, I contin...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Blood in the stool or the presence of blood is considered an abnormal symptom. Possible diagnoses range from common hemorrhoids to various gastrointestinal diseases. Given your age, the likelihood of colorectal cancer is low; it is more probable that the bleeding is caused by hem...

Understanding Blood in Stool: Should You Worry About Cancer?

I am concerned about my age and the likelihood of cancer. About a year ago, I experienced some intermittent blood in my stool, but it was not very noticeable. Recently, I noticed blood again during a bowel movement; the stool itself was normal in size, about the thickness of a 50...

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Young men have a lower likelihood of developing colorectal cancer compared to older individuals, but it is not impossible. Blood in the stool is often associated with hemorrhoids, but it could also indicate cancer or other issues. It is recommended to consult a colorectal ...

Understanding Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: Is It Colon Cancer?

One night, I experienced abdominal pain and went to the bathroom. At first, my stool was light brown and streaky, followed by a mushy mass that contained some blood. When I wiped with toilet paper, I noticed a lot of blood and some mucus on the paper. Could I have colon cancer? C...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Please first visit a colorectal surgeon for evaluation, and undergo further examinations if necessary.

Understanding Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: Should You Worry?

I previously underwent a barium enema, and the doctor said there were no abnormalities. However, I noticed a small amount of blood in my stool two days ago, and my stools are typically ribbon-like, with noticeable blood only that one time. I sometimes experience difficulty with b...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The diagnostic accuracy of barium enema for anal and rectal lesions is relatively poor. Based on your symptoms, the presence of blood in the stool likely originates from the anal or rectal area, and your bowel habits may be a result of functional disorders. It is recommend...