Blood in Stool: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer or Hemorrhoids?

Q: Blood in Stool: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer or Hemorrhoids?

Hello： In response to your question, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer at the age of 28 is relatively low. <br>It is generally advised to observe for a few days; if there is no further bleeding, it should be fine. <br>However, if bleeding persists, you should seek me

Blood in the stool?

Hello, doctor.
This afternoon at 4 PM, I experienced abdominal pain, and after having a bowel movement (the color and shape were normal), the pain subsided.
At 8 PM, I felt the urge to have another bowel movement, and my abdomen was slightly painful again.
During this bowel movement, I passed gas frequently, and afterward, I noticed that one of the three stools had blood in it.
I have a history of hemorrhoids, but this time the stool was not as hard as usual (I often have pellet-like stools).
There was no sharp pain in the anus during the bowel movement, so I feel it doesn't seem like a hemorrhoid flare-up.
Should I observe for a few more days to see if the abdominal pain and blood in the stool persist, or should I go see a doctor right away? I'm very concerned that it might be colon cancer.
Thank you.

A-Hsien, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/04/24

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Hello: In response to your question, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer at the age of 28 is relatively low.
It is generally advised to observe for a few days; if there is no further bleeding, it should be fine.
However, if bleeding persists, you should seek medical attention promptly.
Typically, treatment will begin with medications for hemorrhoids.
If you are truly concerned about the possibility of colorectal cancer, the only way to alleviate your worries is to undergo a colonoscopy.

Reply Date: 2013/04/24

More Info

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

Based on your description, you experienced abdominal pain followed by a bowel movement that revealed blood in your stool. You also mentioned having a history of hemorrhoids, which can often be a common cause of rectal bleeding. Hemorrhoids can lead to bright red blood on the surface of the stool or on toilet paper, especially during bowel movements. The fact that your stool was not particularly hard this time and that you did not experience pain during the bowel movement may suggest that the bleeding could indeed be related to your hemorrhoids rather than a more serious condition.

However, it is crucial to consider other potential causes of rectal bleeding. These can range from benign conditions such as anal fissures, diverticulosis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), to more serious conditions like colorectal cancer or polyps. Given your family history of colorectal cancer, it is wise to be vigilant about any changes in your bowel habits or the appearance of blood in your stool.

In your case, since you have a known history of hemorrhoids, it is possible that this could be the source of the bleeding. However, the presence of blood, especially if it is a new symptom or if it persists, warrants further investigation. It is advisable to monitor your symptoms closely over the next few days. If the bleeding continues, if you experience significant abdominal pain, changes in your bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), or any other concerning symptoms, you should seek medical attention promptly.

In terms of next steps, consider scheduling an appointment with a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon. They may recommend a physical examination and possibly a colonoscopy to rule out any serious conditions, especially given your family history. A colonoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool that allows for direct visualization of the colon and rectum, and it can also enable the removal of polyps if they are found.

While it is natural to worry about the possibility of cancer, especially with a family history, it is also important to remember that many cases of rectal bleeding are due to less serious conditions. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and managing any existing hemorrhoids can also help reduce the risk of further complications.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to your known hemorrhoids, it is essential to remain vigilant. Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, and do not hesitate to seek medical advice if you have any concerns. Early detection and intervention are key in managing any potential health issues effectively.

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