Hi doctor, I have periodic blood coming out of my stool once a month for the last one year. It is very periodic and is not regular. Along with that, I recently developed frequent indigestion and stomach burning sensation. I do have a history of gastric issues though. Now, I am really confused if I consider this as a symptom of stomach or colon cancer. However, my appetite is good and I do not have fatigue or any other issues.
Hello. I can understand your concern as bleeding along with stool (bleeding per rectum) is a major concern for any individual. Do not worry much as there are more noncancerous causes of bleeding per rectum than cancerous causes in your age group. So, you need thorough investigations. Your stomach problems, indigestion, and burning sensation seem to be associated with APD (acid peptic disease). It is common in males. So, you should visit a general surgeon and he will examine and look for any local hemorrhoids, anal fissure (tear), fistula, etc. If he cannot find any such thing, He will refer you for colonoscopy and if needed for gastroscopy (less chances) plus they will advise some basic blood tests. Usually, if the blood coming with stools is reddish, it is mainly through the colon, rectum, or anal area and if the blood is coming from the stomach and above, it will change the color of stool to black. So, there will be blackish stool. The various causes of bleeding coming with stools are: All these are noncancerous causes and the last one is colon, rectal or anal cancer. In your age group, it is not so common to have colon or gastric cancer unless some genetic or hereditary factors are involved and cancer is usually associated with significant weight loss, decreased appetite, etc. For more information consult a medical oncologist online -->