Colonoscopy: Addressing Concerns About Constipation and Cancer

Q: Colonoscopy: Addressing Concerns About Constipation and Cancer

Hello： It is recommended to make a judgment based on medical history, family history, and symptomatology examination. <br>It is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. <br>Wishing you peace and happiness.

Colonoscopy

Hello, I experienced severe constipation around August and September of last year, where I had to dig out my stool (which was black and very hard).
After that, my stools were soft but small, or they came out like small stones.
After a while, my bowel movements improved somewhat, but I still occasionally experience constipation or notice a white film on my stool.
Recently, I have been taking traditional Chinese medicine, and my doctor added a laxative, which has helped my bowel movements become smoother.
However, I still worry about whether there might be an issue with my intestines.
I would like to ask if I had symptoms that could indicate colorectal cancer in the past, but my condition has improved; is there still a possibility of colorectal cancer? Should I get checked? Additionally, around the same time, I have been experiencing chest tightness.
I have undergone an endoscopy and heart examinations, both of which showed no issues, but I still feel tightness in my chest.
Is this related to my colon? I would appreciate your guidance.
Thank you.

Mimi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/03/23

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: It is recommended to make a judgment based on medical history, family history, and symptomatology examination.
It is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.
Wishing you peace and happiness.

Reply Date: 2012/03/23

More Info

Understanding your concerns about constipation and the potential risk of colon cancer is crucial, especially given your past experiences with severe constipation and changes in bowel habits. Let's break down your situation and address your questions comprehensively.

Constipation and Its Implications
Constipation can manifest in various ways, including hard, pellet-like stools, which you described as "small stones." This condition can be caused by several factors, including dietary habits, dehydration, lack of physical activity, and certain medications. The presence of a white membrane on your stool could indicate mucus, which can be a normal finding but may also suggest irritation in the intestines.

While constipation itself is not a direct indicator of colon cancer, it can sometimes be associated with other gastrointestinal issues. In your case, the fact that your bowel habits have improved with medication is a positive sign. However, persistent changes in bowel habits, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, blood in the stool, or severe abdominal pain, warrant further investigation.

Risk of Colon Cancer
Given your history of severe constipation and the changes in your stool, it's understandable to be concerned about the possibility of colon cancer. Colon cancer often presents with symptoms such as:
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
- Blood in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
Since you mentioned that your symptoms have improved, it is less likely that you are currently experiencing colon cancer. However, it is essential to consider your risk factors, including age, family history, and any previous gastrointestinal issues.

Recommendations for Screening
Based on your symptoms and history, it would be prudent to discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of undergoing a colonoscopy. This procedure is the gold standard for screening for colon cancer and can help identify any abnormalities in the colon, such as polyps or tumors. The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals at average risk begin screening at age 45, but those with symptoms or risk factors may need to be screened earlier.

Chest Discomfort and Its Relation to Bowel Health
You also mentioned experiencing chest discomfort. While this symptom is not directly related to bowel health, it is essential to consider it in the context of your overall health. Chest discomfort can arise from various causes, including gastrointestinal issues (like acid reflux), anxiety, or cardiac conditions. Since you've had a negative result from both a gastroscopy and heart examination, it may be beneficial to explore other potential causes, such as stress or anxiety, which can manifest physically.

Conclusion
In summary, while your past experiences with constipation and changes in bowel habits are concerning, the improvement you've noted is encouraging. However, given your history, it would be wise to consult with your healthcare provider about the need for a colonoscopy to rule out any serious conditions, including colon cancer. Additionally, if your chest discomfort persists, further evaluation may be necessary to determine its cause.

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity can help manage constipation and promote overall gastrointestinal health. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any new or worsening symptoms, as they can provide tailored advice and support based on your specific situation.

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