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19f stressed about possibility of colon cancer

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morgan1997
morgan1997

I'm 19 years old and I've been experiencing chronic diarrhea and constipation since I could remember. When I was just 11 I had my gallbladder and appendix removed because they assumed that's what was causing my abdominal pain and diarrhea. I also had an endoscopy which showed thick scarring on my esophagus. 

Years later and even after both surgeries and trying many different treatments my symptoms have only gotten worse. I put off going to the doctor for so long because I felt like they weren't listening to me.

Currently I have diarrhea multiple times a day with alternating constipation. I also have been experiencing pain in pretty much all parts of my abdomen, and also sharp pain in my lower center back. I have constant bloating and nausea as well. No weight loss, but possible blood in my stool(dark maroon/blackish color)

I'm having an colonoscopy in two weeks (Finally) but waiting is stressing me out so bad. I know it's not common to have colon cancer at my age but I'm just worried sick at the moment and it feels like it's taking over my mind. The last week I couldn't even go to school or work because the pain and Diarreah was just so bad.

Had anyone experienced anything similar? What was your outcome? 

I know it could be tons of other things like IBS or ulcerative coloritis but I'm just so worried at the moment 

0 likes, 2 replies

2 Replies

  • Adldiane
    Adldiane morgan1997

    Posted

    Hello Morgan. I am so proud of you for trusting yourself and your symptoms and now you are on your way to getting a colonoscopy! Good on you!! Your age does not matter! It is totally normal to have high anxiety. My sister (over 50) never got a colonoscopy and now has been diagnosed with colon cancer. My heart is sick but I have done nothing but research colon cancer and they have come so...very far with treatment. Early detection is key. I have had a colonoscopy and as scared as you are "out" you will go if you live in the US. I hope I helped. Please keep writing is we all care!! Diane

  • tonie16159
    tonie16159 morgan1997

    Posted

    Hi Morgan anxiety is hard to overcome I know from experience and it can make you very ill I'm glad you found a doctor to take you seriously as some don't I had your symptoms and mine was lymphocytic colitis diagnosed 2 years ago it's not cancerous and after 90 days on steroids in now in remission I hope this gives you hope keep us posted I hope all is ok with you so young to worry about cancer hugs to you

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