Symptoms: Could Your Digestive Issues Indicate Colon Cancer?

Colorectal cancer-related issues?

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 visited Taichung Veterans General Hospital, where the doctor did not perform any bowel cleansing, only an enema, and then conducted a colonoscopy.
However, I couldn't tolerate the pain and couldn't complete the procedure.
Although the doctor said everything was fine, I am still very worried about the possibility of colon cancer that may not have been detected.
Do my symptoms resemble those of colon cancer? Today, out of concern, I went to Cheng Ching Hospital, where the doctor told me that I am just experiencing constipation (but can constipation really last more than two weeks?).
They prescribed me Sennapur, Mosapride, Gascon tablets, and magnesium oxide tablets.
Three hours after taking the medications, I had two large, dark, banana-shaped stools, and there was a small red dot on one of them, which I am unsure if it is blood.
What could these symptoms indicate? I am really scared it might be cancer.

Xuan Xuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/09/16

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 full colonoscopy, although it may be more uncomfortable.
The softening medication prescribed by the hospital is considered to have a mild effect; if taking these medications allows you to have bowel movements, then your symptoms are not particularly severe.
The first stool passed after several days of constipation being dark with red streaks is not considered abnormal.
If you are still worried, I sincerely recommend that you undergo a painless colonoscopy, which should help alleviate your concerns.

Reply Date: 2014/09/16

More Info

Your concerns about digestive issues and the potential for colon cancer are understandable, especially given the symptoms you've described. It's important to approach this situation with a clear understanding of the symptoms and their implications.

Firstly, it's crucial to note that while digestive issues can be alarming, they are not always indicative of serious conditions like colon cancer. Colon cancer typically presents with a range of symptoms, including changes in bowel habits (such as persistent diarrhea or constipation), blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, and abdominal discomfort. However, many of these symptoms can also be attributed to less severe conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hemorrhoids, or dietary changes.

In your case, you've mentioned experiencing abdominal bloating, difficulty in passing stool, and the need to exert significant effort to have a bowel movement. These symptoms can indeed be associated with constipation, which can occur for various reasons, including dietary factors, stress, and changes in routine. It's not uncommon for constipation to last for an extended period, sometimes even weeks, particularly if there are underlying factors such as anxiety or dietary changes.

The medications prescribed to you, including sennosides (Sennapur), mosapride, and magnesium oxide, are commonly used to alleviate constipation. Sennosides are stimulant laxatives that encourage bowel movements, while mosapride is a prokinetic agent that helps improve gastrointestinal motility. Magnesium oxide acts as an osmotic laxative, drawing water into the intestines to facilitate stool passage. The fact that you experienced a significant bowel movement after taking these medications suggests that your symptoms may be primarily related to constipation rather than a more serious condition.

Regarding the black stool you observed, it's important to note that black stools can result from various factors, including the consumption of certain foods (like black licorice or iron supplements) or medications (such as Pepto-Bismol). However, black stools can also indicate bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, which is something to take seriously. The red dot you mentioned could be a sign of blood, but it could also be a harmless food particle or something else entirely. If you continue to see blood in your stool or if your symptoms worsen, it would be wise to seek further medical evaluation.

In terms of your anxiety about colon cancer, it's worth noting that the likelihood of developing colon cancer at your age (29) is relatively low, especially if there is no family history of the disease. However, if you have persistent symptoms or if your bowel habits continue to change, it is advisable to follow up with a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation, which may include a colonoscopy if deemed necessary.

In summary, while your symptoms are concerning, they do not definitively indicate colon cancer. It's essential to monitor your symptoms, adhere to the prescribed treatments, and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you experience any alarming changes, such as significant weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, or changes in stool color or consistency, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and addressing these concerns with a professional can help alleviate your fears and provide clarity on your condition.

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