Is It Colon Cancer? Symptoms and Concerns

Worried about the possibility of colorectal cancer?

In mid-November, I noticed blood in my stool.
There was one instance of bleeding before the bowel movement and another after.
I went to the hospital for a brief examination, and the doctor mentioned that the stool color was normal and that I had two internal hemorrhoids.
I was given some hemorrhoid medication and hemostatic agents, and after using them, the bleeding stopped.
Since then, I have not experienced any bleeding and have stopped taking the medication.
However, my bowel movements have often been loose, and sometimes resemble sheep feces.
Each time I finish a bowel movement, I notice a lot of clear mucus on the toilet paper.
The day after my hospital visit, I experienced pain around my stomach area, but it subsided after a while.
I would like to know if this could be colon cancer.
Can hemorrhoids cause mucus?

Zhu Shenglong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/02

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

At the age of 17, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is not zero, but generally speaking, it is extremely low.
Based on your description, it seems more like hemorrhoids.
I recommend starting with a light diet and maintaining a good lifestyle.
Spicy, irritating, and greasy foods should be avoided, and increasing your intake of dietary fiber can also be beneficial.
If symptoms persist without improvement, you may want to consult a physician for medication or to undergo a colonoscopy.

Reply Date: 2017/12/02

More Info

When it comes to understanding the symptoms and concerns surrounding colon cancer, it's essential to consider a variety of factors, including the nature of your symptoms, your medical history, and any diagnostic tests that may have been conducted. Based on your description, you experienced rectal bleeding, changes in stool consistency, and abdominal pain, which can be concerning symptoms that warrant further investigation.

Firstly, rectal bleeding can occur for various reasons, and while hemorrhoids (or "痔瘡" in Chinese) are a common cause, they are not the only possibility. Hemorrhoids can indeed lead to bleeding, especially during bowel movements, and they can also cause mucus discharge. The presence of mucus in your stool, particularly if it is accompanied by changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or pellet-like stools), can be indicative of several conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infections, or even colorectal cancer.

The fact that you experienced blood before and after bowel movements, along with the subsequent changes in stool consistency, raises some concerns. While hemorrhoids can cause these symptoms, it is crucial to rule out more serious conditions, including colon cancer, especially if you are experiencing persistent symptoms or if there is a family history of colorectal cancer.

In terms of the abdominal pain you mentioned, it is not uncommon for individuals with gastrointestinal issues to experience intermittent pain. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it is essential to seek medical attention. Pain in the abdominal area can be caused by various factors, including digestive issues, inflammation, or even tumors.

Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to follow up with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation. This may include a colonoscopy, which is the gold standard for diagnosing conditions of the colon and rectum, including cancer. A colonoscopy allows for direct visualization of the colon and the opportunity to take biopsies of any suspicious lesions.

As for your concerns about colon cancer, it is important to note that while your symptoms could be indicative of cancer, they could also be attributed to benign conditions. The risk of developing colon cancer increases with age, and certain risk factors such as family history, personal history of polyps, and lifestyle factors (such as diet and smoking) can also play a role.

In conclusion, while your symptoms warrant further investigation, it is essential to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. Hemorrhoids can cause similar symptoms, but given the potential seriousness of colon cancer, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough assessment and appropriate diagnostic testing. Early detection is key in managing any potential issues effectively, so do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

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