As a fellow human being, it’s something we all do: we poop. But let’s address something serious – rectal bleeding. Recently, I experienced the alarming sight of blood in my stool and bright red stains on the toilet paper after a bowel movement, a phenomenon known as rectal bleeding. Like many, my first thought was hemorrhoids, but I quickly learned that wasn’t the case.
As a healthy 34-year-old without any family history of colon issues, I was confronted with the possibility of rectal cancer. Alarmingly, there has been a rising trend in colon and rectal cancers among younger adults, a phenomenon that remains largely unexplained. While rectal bleeding can indeed be attributed to hemorrhoids or other benign conditions, it can also signal something more serious.
It’s crucial to understand that not every healthcare provider is fully aware of this increasing incidence, and many patients, like myself, may not recognize that rectal bleeding can indicate a grave health concern.
If you notice rectal bleeding, my strongest advice is to seek medical attention. It may seem obvious, but many people hesitate or feel embarrassed discussing their bowel habits. Don’t let that stop you! If you feel your concerns aren’t being taken seriously, don’t hesitate to consult multiple doctors until you find one who does.
After a weekend of frantically researching my symptoms online, I reached out to my primary care physician. A quick examination led to what I hoped would be good news — it was likely hemorrhoids. With two young children, I thought this was a reasonable conclusion. My doctor even presented a graph indicating that my risk of colon and rectal cancer was very low and suggested I could see a gastroenterologist if I wanted. Sure, why not?
However, my appointment with the gastroenterologist didn’t go as planned. Neither she nor my primary care physician performed a rectal exam. It seemed odd to me that everyone was quick to diagnose hemorrhoids without actually checking. Finally, I sought a second opinion from a colon and rectal surgeon. Guess what he found after conducting a proper examination? Not hemorrhoids!
He informed me of a study from the American Cancer Society highlighting the concerning rise of colon and rectal cancers in younger populations, and he recommended a colonoscopy. This procedure, while daunting, is essential for anyone with rectal bleeding. Yes, you’ll endure some uncomfortable preparation, but it is worth it for your health.
When I awoke from the anesthesia of my colonoscopy, a nurse placed a report on my chest. “They found a big polyp,” she said casually. I was stunned. The doctor explained my diagnosis: rectal cancer. They had taken biopsies from a large polyp in my rectum. A huge sigh of relief came when I learned that the biopsies indicated high-grade dysplasia, which, while not cancer, was a clear warning sign. The resulting scans were clear apart from an inflamed lymph node, suggesting possible spread. It was only after surgery to remove the polyp and surrounding tissue that I learned I did not have cancer. Such a relief!
Reflecting on this experience, I realize how easily I could have dismissed my symptoms or accepted a simple diagnosis of hemorrhoids. The thought of potentially facing cancer is terrifying. I continue to learn about the increasing number of younger adults diagnosed with colon and rectal cancers, and I’m sharing my story in hopes of raising awareness.
Rectal cancers often present with no symptoms until they are advanced, and the first sign can indeed be bleeding. It’s vital to stay informed and take any instance of rectal bleeding seriously.
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In summary, do not overlook rectal bleeding; it could be a sign of something serious. Ensure you seek medical advice promptly and advocate for your health.
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