February 10, 2012
Topics A-Z Cancer Blood and Mucous in Stool
Blood and Mucous in Stool |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: About 6 or 7 months ago i started noticing blood and mucos in my stools,I'm having trouble going to the bathroom,when i do go its hurts a lot like my inside is bruised,and when i do go it feels like I'm never finished,it feels like i always have to go.I feel like pushing all the time.I need to know if its colon cancer or just something that can be fixed. I'm so worried I'm losing my hair and sleep over this. Dear Tina: Thank you for your question. I encounter this question almost daily in practice. Firstly, I want to be very clear. Cancer must be considered any time there is a change in consistency, frequency or color of stool. The possibility of cancer is increased with low fiber diet, smoking, alcohol, obesity and sedentary lifestyle. Other risk factors include: being of African American race, history of inflammatory bowel disease, personal or family history of colon polyps, diabetes and history of radiation therapy. Secondly, the majority of cases of blood and mucous in the stool are not colon caner. Other possibilities include hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, celiacs disease and dietary in tolerances. Please see your doctor for an approprite history, physical and testing to determine the cause of your symptoms. |
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| Last Updated ( Sunday, 17 January 2010 ) |
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