Two Weeks of Constipation: Should I Worry About Colon Cancer?

I have been constipated for two weeks?

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing constipation for two weeks.
Every time I go to the bathroom, I have to strain a lot to pass stool, but I only manage to expel a small amount each time.
Additionally, after I finish, I feel like I haven't completely emptied my bowels.
I go to the bathroom 4 to 5 times a day, and it still requires a lot of effort to pass stool, with only a little coming out each time.
I'm very worried that this might be a sign of colon cancer, which is causing me a lot of distress.
Doctor, do you think I need to undergo a colonoscopy? If so, what is the approximate cost for a painless colonoscopy? Thank you, Doctor.

Liao Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/18

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

The likelihood of developing colon cancer at the age of 24 is not zero, but generally speaking, it is very, very low.
Based on your description, it seems more like typical constipation.
It is recommended to start with a light diet and maintain a good lifestyle.
Spicy, irritating, and greasy foods should be avoided.
Increasing the intake of dietary fiber and fluids can also be beneficial.
If symptoms persist without improvement, you may consult a physician for medication or consider undergoing a colonoscopy.
The cost for a painless colonoscopy varies by hospital, typically ranging from $3,000 to $8,000.

Reply Date: 2022/04/18

More Info

Constipation for two weeks can be uncomfortable and concerning, especially when accompanied by the symptoms you described, such as straining during bowel movements, feeling of incomplete evacuation, and the small amount of stool produced. While these symptoms can be indicative of various gastrointestinal issues, including functional constipation, they can also raise concerns about more serious conditions, including colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer often presents with changes in bowel habits, including constipation, diarrhea, or a change in the consistency of stools. Other common symptoms may include blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, or a persistent change in bowel habits. However, it's important to note that constipation alone does not mean you have cancer. Many factors can contribute to constipation, including dietary habits, hydration levels, physical activity, and stress.

Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend a thorough evaluation, which could include a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and possibly laboratory tests. If there is a concern for colorectal cancer, a colonoscopy may be advised. A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inner lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera. It is the gold standard for detecting colorectal cancer and other abnormalities, such as polyps or inflammatory bowel disease.

Regarding your question about the cost of a painless colonoscopy, prices can vary widely depending on your location, the facility, and whether you have insurance coverage. In the United States, the cost of a colonoscopy can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more without insurance. If you have insurance, your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your specific plan's coverage for preventive screenings and diagnostic procedures. It's best to check with your insurance provider and the facility where you plan to have the procedure done for a more accurate estimate.

In summary, while your symptoms warrant attention, they do not automatically indicate colorectal cancer. It is essential to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause of your constipation and to discuss the need for further diagnostic testing, such as a colonoscopy. Early detection and intervention are key in managing any potential health issues effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Constipation: Signs, Symptoms, and When to Worry

In the past week or two, my bowel movements have been irregular; sometimes they are normal, other times they resemble rabbit pellets, and occasionally they are large, hard stools that are yellow-brown in color. Sometimes they have mucus, and I am worried that it might be colon ca...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The likelihood of developing colon cancer at the age of 19 is not zero, but generally, it is very low. Based on your description, it seems to be simple constipation. It is recommended to maintain a light diet and good lifestyle habits. If the symptoms persist without improvement,...

Understanding Symptoms: Could Your Digestive Issues Indicate Colon Cancer?

I have always had smooth bowel movements, but for the past two weeks, I have been experiencing abdominal bloating and discomfort, which has caused insomnia. When I feel the urge to go, I sit on the toilet but only pass gas, and I have to strain to produce a small amount. I visite...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The examination conducted by Taichung Veterans General Hospital likely only involved a sigmoidoscopy, which examines the lower 30-50 centimeters of the colon. If you are concerned that there may be lesions in the upper part that were not checked, you should consider undergoing a ...

Could It Be Colon Cancer? Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Since the beginning of April, I have been experiencing constipation, with hard and dry stools. I have to strain a lot during bowel movements, and there is blood mixed with mucus. Later, I changed my diet and increased my water intake, which made my stools less hard, but I often f...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: In terms of age, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is low. It may be helpful to review your recent dietary habits (fruits and vegetables, hydration, variety of foods), bowel habits, and emotional state to see if there are any changes compared to before. If the...

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

In the past two weeks, my stools have become thinner or watery. Two months ago, I experienced fresh blood after bowel movements twice, but now there is no blood. I have a small polyp outside the anus (which is neither painful nor itchy) that has appeared for about four months, an...

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Miss Zhu, based on your symptoms, it seems more like irritable bowel syndrome. However, since there is fresh blood in your stool, it is recommended to have a stool test. If the test results are normal, you should pay attention to stress, exercise more, and eat more fruits an...