The Colon Club

I am a 32YR old male that has otherwise been fairly healthy. At the start of this year I had my appendix removed due to right side pain, etc. Since that time I have had pain in both my right and left side, excess gas, stools that were thinner, etc. All of these were concerning, but I didn't make an appointment. 1 month post-op, I had a BM where there was pain and blood. I made an appointment and saw my internist, who examined but didn't find any hemorrhoids. He said that was what he thought it would be. I was referred to a general surgeon so that he could examine as well. He examined and found no evidence of hemorrhoids or anal fissure, but thought it might be anal fissure. He also mentioned he would refer me to a gastroenterologist. It took a month to get an appointment, but I am going to be seeing him on Friday. In the meantime I have done a few FOBT tests--some came back negative & others looked positive (not 100% sure as the line was very faint). I've had a lot of pain in my rear when going to the bathroom on and off the whole few months also. And lots of gas, and some pain on both right and left side around areas where the surgery took place.

So, I am trying to ask you guys what I should be asking. I am worried about colon cancer, though I have worried about many things over the years and so worrying isn't out of the ordinary for me. I am just trying to be thorough here since there has been evidence of GI bleeding. Should I (or can I) demand a colonoscopy? Do the risks associated with this procedure outweigh its necessity given lack of risk factors for me? Any advice or assistance would be helpful. Thank you all!

Given your situation, I think you should ask your gastroenterologist about a colonoscopy. This, in my opinion, would be the first step to take in resolving your problem.

I agree with Stoma Mia

Thank you all for the advice. I met with my gastroenterologist and he seemed great. He has me scheduled for a colonoscopy this Friday.

I have to admit I am more than a little freaked out--both by the idea of the procedure and also terrified of what they might find. I can't get it out of my mind. My doctor didn't seem overly concerned and mentioned a whole host of things he thinks are more likely based on my symptoms, etc., but I have always been a worrier and am having a hard time focusing on anything else right now.

I'm glad you're getting a colonoscopy!*hugs* The prep is the worst part. They give you medication before the colonoscopy so you feel no pain nor remember.

Good luck with your colonoscopy. Prep is yuck but the test itself is no big deal