Possible blood in stool

So today in my bowel movement I noticed this red chunk that I thought was food but when I examined it it fell apart and smeared on the toilet paper leaving a bright red (sort of orangey) mark. I'm terrified this is blood. I've also been having more frequent (but still solid) bowel movements, but before now I thought that could have been just because I have been anxious about my bowel movements lately and that was affecting it. I'm scared because this red piece was quite big. The rest of my stool looked normal though. Btw I'm 19.

  • Hello Bethan158, 

                                  l am no nurse and they are away over the bank holiday, but in my experience l feel your first thought of it being food is probably correct. In my personal knowledge of bowel cancer, ,bleeding from the bowel is bright red and fresh, or black and stale, but orangey it is not. and anxiety will as you so rightly say, will most certainly increase bowel movements.

    l am sure the nurses will be back tomorrow and reply to your concerns, but in the meantime try to cut back on the worry,

                                                                   take care, David

  • Hello and thank you for posting.

    I'm afraid I don't know what the red piece may have been. It could well have been some digested food. 

    It would be unusual to have any problems with bowel cancer at your age, but if you remain concerned or have any further symptoms do make an appointment and talk things through with your GP.

    Take care.

    Sarah.