Concerns About Possible Colon Cancer
I'm a 16-year-old female and I've shared a similar post before, but my symptoms have worsened. Initially, I started experiencing back and abdominal discomfort, which later led to nausea, and I ended up vomiting twice on Tuesday and Wednesday. For the past week and three days, I've been dealing with several symptoms associated with colon cancer. Just yesterday, I discovered small traces of blood on my tissue after using the restroom, as well as in my stool. I had a comprehensive blood test done on Friday, and thankfully, the results came back normal. Throughout that week, I visited both my doctor and the hospital, and I was advised to return tomorrow for further evaluation. I'm anxious that my worries might not be taken seriously due to my age; however, all I want is clarity on my condition, as this is significantly affecting my life. I'm struggling to cope with the fear that something serious might be wrong, and any guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Answers (1)
7/14/2025, 7:02:06 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be worried when facing new and troubling symptoms, especially at a young age. While symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, and traces of blood in stool can understandably raise concerns, it's important to know that there are many potential explanations, many of which are not serious.
Explanation:
Many gastrointestinal issues can cause these symptoms, such as infections, inflammation (like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), or even benign issues such as hemorrhoids. Colon cancer is much less common in young individuals, and the fact that you have already had a normal blood test is reassuring. However, it’s good that you’re being proactive and getting further evaluations.
Next Steps:
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Follow Medical Advice: Attend your appointment scheduled for evaluation. Discuss all your symptoms thoroughly, including the blood you've noticed, as this will help your healthcare provider determine the next best steps.
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Symptom Journal: Keep a simple record of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any related factors (like food intake or stress levels). This will provide valuable information to your doctors.
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Hydration and Diet: Focus on staying hydrated, especially since you’ve experienced vomiting. Try to eat a balanced diet that’s gentle on your stomach, such as bland foods (like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) until you have clarity on your situation.
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Emotional Support: It’s important to talk about your feelings. If you’re feeling overly anxious, consider discussing your worries with someone you trust, like a family member or a counselor.
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Stay Informed: Remember, getting clarity on health is key. You’re already taking positive steps towards understanding your condition. It’s natural to feel anxious, but know that you are doing the right thing by seeking help.
If you experience worsening symptoms such as increased pain, high fever, or more significant blood loss, don’t hesitate to seek immediate medical attention. Take care, and do keep an open line of communication with your healthcare team.
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