Is It Gastroenteritis or Colon Cancer? Your Symptoms

Unsure if it's gastroenteritis or colorectal cancer?

I have no family history of gastrointestinal issues.
I underwent surgery and chemotherapy for colon cancer over a decade ago, and my follow-ups have shown no abnormalities since then.
In the past couple of years, I have had a colonoscopy, a full-body MRI, and last year I had an abdominal ultrasound and a CT scan of the abdomen.
Three weeks ago, I experienced a mild cold with sinusitis, accompanied by abdominal bloating and diarrhea.
The clinic treated me with antibiotics and a ketogenic diet.
Although my cold has resolved, I am still experiencing diarrhea.
My bowel movements were originally three times a day, but while the frequency remains the same, the consistency has changed from watery diarrhea to unformed stools.
Sometimes the stools are in a solid piece, while other times they are loose or mushy.
I feel that my intestinal motility has increased, as my stomach often makes gurgling noises.
The clinic diagnosed me with gastroenteritis, but after finishing the medication, my condition has not improved.
Although I no longer have watery diarrhea, my stools are still unformed, and I have no other symptoms.
This has been ongoing for over two weeks.
Should I consider having a colonoscopy?

P, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/18

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It is recommended to first check the stool, maintain a consistent diet, and adjust medications as needed.
If the time is appropriate, an early colonoscopy can also be considered.

Reply Date: 2023/04/18

More Info

Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms that have persisted for over two weeks, including changes in stool consistency, increased bowel movements, and abdominal discomfort. Given your medical history of colon cancer treatment over a decade ago, it is understandable that you may be concerned about the possibility of a recurrence or the development of new issues, such as colon cancer.

Firstly, it is important to differentiate between gastroenteritis and colon cancer based on your symptoms. Gastroenteritis, often caused by viral or bacterial infections, typically presents with symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. In your case, the recent episode of mild sinusitis and the use of antibiotics may have contributed to an imbalance in your gut flora, leading to persistent diarrhea and changes in stool consistency. The fact that your stool has changed from watery diarrhea to more formed but still inconsistent stools suggests that your gastrointestinal system is still recovering from the initial insult.

On the other hand, colon cancer symptoms can include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, and persistent abdominal pain. However, your lack of family history of colon cancer, previous clear screenings, and the absence of alarming symptoms such as blood in the stool or significant weight loss are reassuring factors. Additionally, the fact that you have undergone regular screenings, including colonoscopy and imaging studies, and have not had any abnormalities detected in recent years further decreases the likelihood of cancer being the cause of your current symptoms.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for more than two weeks without improvement, it may be prudent to consider further evaluation. A colonoscopy could be beneficial, especially since you have a history of colon cancer. It would allow for direct visualization of the colon and the opportunity to take biopsies if any suspicious lesions are found. Furthermore, if there is any concern about inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other gastrointestinal disorders, a colonoscopy can help rule those out as well.

In the meantime, you may want to focus on dietary adjustments to help manage your symptoms. Increasing your intake of soluble fiber can help normalize stool consistency. Foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet) can be beneficial during recovery from diarrhea. Additionally, staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you have experienced diarrhea, as it can lead to dehydration.

If your symptoms worsen or if you develop new symptoms such as fever, severe abdominal pain, or blood in your stool, you should seek medical attention promptly. It is also essential to communicate with your healthcare provider about your ongoing symptoms and any concerns you may have regarding your gastrointestinal health.

In summary, while your symptoms may be indicative of gastroenteritis, the persistence of these symptoms warrants further evaluation, potentially including a colonoscopy, especially given your medical history. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and monitoring your symptoms closely will be important as you navigate this situation.

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