Colon Cancer |
Do I have colon cancer?11/05/2008 |
I am 17 years old and I have experienced an awkward situation. I have gone to the restroom and have found blood in my stool. It was dark red and when I wiped myself the toilet paper had mucus of blood. I do not notice any other changes. Although it only happened once I am very frightened because my grandfather passed away of colon cancer and my dad once had it.
It is extremely unlikely that you have colon cancer as it almost always occurs over age 40. Having said that, you should be evaluated for the bleeding. The possibilities include hemorrhoids, a tear near the rectum (fissure) or inflammation in the colon (colitis). I suggest that you see your physician.
|
Gregory S Cooper, MD Professor of Medicine School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University |