Blood in Stool: Is It a Sign of Colon Cancer?

Blood in the stool..?

Hello Doctor, recently I've been observing my stool when I go to the bathroom.
The first few times were normal, but the color was a bit darker (brown).
Tonight, I suddenly had the urge to go and passed a very long and hard stool that resembled a banana.
There was a small amount of orange-red material on it, and then I started to feel pain in my anus.
When I stood up to check, I noticed there was blood on the stool, bright red, and some dripped onto the bathroom floor.
After wiping, there was no more blood on the first piece of toilet paper, and my stomach doesn't feel crampy or anything.
I have a history of gastrointestinal issues.
Could this be colon cancer? A long time ago, I also had blood from hard stools.
I don't eat much fruit, but I've been trying to improve that.
Recently, I've eaten a lot of kimchi stew and scrambled eggs with tomatoes.
Could this be related to the orange-red stool? I've also been eating a mixed nut snack and a cereal that I soak in milk in the morning.
I've noticed that whenever I eat that cereal, I go to the bathroom every day.
Is this normal? Also, can abdominal masses related to colon cancer be felt from the outside? I'm a bit worried.

Chongfeng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/24

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery

1.
Mucosal injury and bleeding caused by hard stools have a lower association with colorectal cancer.

2.
Diet can be related to the color of bowel movements, but it is unclear if this instance is related.

3.
Nuts, being high in fats, can help lubricate the intestines, leading to smoother bowel movements.

4.
Generally, colorectal cancer masses are rarely palpable externally; most palpable findings are typically fecal matter.

Reply Date: 2017/07/24

More Info

When it comes to the presence of blood in stool, it can understandably cause significant concern, especially with a family history of colon cancer. However, it's essential to approach this issue with a clear understanding of the potential causes and the appropriate next steps.

Firstly, the appearance of bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper often indicates bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, which includes the rectum and anus. This can be due to several benign conditions, such as hemorrhoids (piles), anal fissures, or even diverticular disease. Given your description of hard, banana-shaped stools, it is quite possible that the blood you observed was a result of a fissure or irritation caused by straining during bowel movements. Hard stools can cause trauma to the delicate lining of the rectum, leading to bleeding.

In your case, the fact that the blood was bright red and only appeared after a bowel movement, and that it ceased after the first wipe, suggests that it is more likely related to a superficial injury rather than a serious condition like colon cancer. Colon cancer typically presents with more persistent symptoms, such as ongoing changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain that does not resolve.

Regarding your dietary habits, the foods you mentioned, such as kimchi and tomato dishes, can influence stool color and consistency. For instance, tomatoes can sometimes give a reddish hue to stool, especially if consumed in large quantities. Additionally, nuts and other high-fiber foods can help regulate bowel movements, making them easier and more regular, which is beneficial for overall digestive health.

As for your question about whether a colon cancer mass can be felt externally, it is important to note that most colon cancers are not palpable through the abdominal wall. Typically, any mass that can be felt is more likely to be fecal matter or other benign conditions. However, if there is a significant mass, it may be detected during a physical examination by a healthcare provider.

Given your concerns and the symptoms you've described, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably a gastroenterologist. They may recommend a colonoscopy, especially since you have a family history of colon cancer. This procedure allows for direct visualization of the colon and rectum and can help identify any abnormalities, including polyps or tumors. Additionally, a stool test for occult blood can be performed to check for hidden blood in the stool, which may not be visible to the naked eye.

In summary, while the presence of blood in stool can be alarming, it is not always indicative of colon cancer, especially in the context of hard stools and transient symptoms. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and seeking medical advice for persistent or concerning symptoms are key steps in managing your gastrointestinal health. Regular screenings, particularly if you have a family history of colon cancer, are crucial for early detection and prevention.

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