Feces, Poop & Butt Issues / Question
Published: September 30, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am an 18 year old male and for the past five days my bowel movements have contained a small amount of blood in the feces. It is noticeable moreso on the toilet tissue, but the blood is merely on the surface of the stool. I have no other digestive or abdominal pains or problems whatsoever. I do not smoke, drink or do drugs. I read that "blood in the stool" is a symptom of colon cancer! Should I be worried? Thanks.
Signed: Blood In Stool
Dear Blood In Stool,
While blood in the stool may be a symptom of colon rectal cancer, there are several other reasons and illnesses that could also cause blood in the stool. In fact, rectal bleeding is a relatively common problem and is typically not serious, unless it is prolonged.
FX has posted a question very similar to yours. Please check out Blood During Wiping for more information. Also, to be on the safe side, FX recommends that you see a doctor to make sure that everything is okay. If you live in Northern New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.6475.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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