Symptoms: Should You Worry About Stomach or Colon Cancer?

Is it stomach cancer? (Is the stomach cancer pressing against the sternum?) Colon cancer? Hemorrhoids? Polyps? Which department should I consult?

I noticed blood at the edge of my stool today, with one or two drops of bright red blood in the toilet.
For the past five to six years, my stools have been very foul-smelling, and I have often experienced constipation, although it has improved over the last two years.
However, the odor persists.
For the past two months, I have had mild pain on the inner side of my left chest and slight pain in my left shoulder blade.
I initially thought it was related to my menstrual cycle and consulted a pulmonologist, but the chest X-ray did not show any abnormalities.
Could this be stomach cancer (pressing on the sternum)? Breast cancer? Colon cancer? Hemorrhoids? Polyps? Which specialty should I consult?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/02

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Hello, rectal bleeding is considered an abnormal symptom and can range from common conditions like hemorrhoids to more serious gastrointestinal diseases.
Based on your description, hemorrhoids are the most likely cause of the bleeding.
It is recommended that you visit a hospital's surgical or gastroenterology department for further examination.
As for the pain in your chest and left scapula, there are many possible causes.
Based on the information provided, it is not possible to determine the exact cause, and you will need to visit a hospital for further diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2017/01/02

More Info

When it comes to gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly those involving changes in bowel habits, the presence of blood in the stool, and associated discomfort, it is understandable to feel concerned about potential serious conditions such as colorectal cancer. However, it is essential to approach these symptoms with a comprehensive understanding of their possible causes and the appropriate steps to take.

Firstly, the presence of blood in the stool can arise from various conditions, not all of which are related to cancer. Common causes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticulosis, and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Hemorrhoids, in particular, are a frequent culprit, especially if the blood is bright red and appears on the toilet paper or in the bowl. This is often associated with straining during bowel movements or constipation.

In your case, you mentioned that you have experienced constipation for several years, which has recently improved. However, the persistent foul odor of your stool and the recent observation of blood could suggest that there might still be underlying issues, such as dietary factors, gut flora imbalances, or even the presence of polyps in the colon. Polyps are growths on the lining of the colon that can sometimes lead to cancer if left untreated, but they are often benign.

Regarding your additional symptoms, such as left-sided chest pain and discomfort in the shoulder, these may not be directly related to gastrointestinal issues. Chest pain can arise from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, anxiety, or even cardiac conditions. Given that you have already consulted a pulmonologist and had a chest X-ray that did not reveal any abnormalities, it may be prudent to consider other causes for your chest discomfort, including stress or muscle strain.

As for your concerns about stomach cancer, it is less likely that gastric cancer would present with the symptoms you described, especially if the primary issue is related to bowel movements and the presence of blood. Gastric cancer typically presents with symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent stomach pain, nausea, and changes in appetite.

Given your symptoms, the most appropriate course of action would be to consult a gastroenterologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a colonoscopy to visualize the colon and rectum directly, allowing for the identification of any polyps, lesions, or other abnormalities. A colonoscopy is particularly important if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, as this can increase your risk.

In summary, while your symptoms warrant attention, they do not automatically indicate cancer. Many benign conditions can cause similar symptoms. It is crucial to seek a professional evaluation to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms accurately. In the meantime, consider maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and managing stress, as these factors can significantly influence gastrointestinal health.

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