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Bowel cancer

Niamhgrace
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Hi,I am a fit ex firefighter male,aged 61,I'm concerned about my bowel movements have changed,I have a small lump on my anus,and I get pain on my right side abdomen,and lower back right side,I seem to get tired most days around dinner time,and need to have a snooze.The pain I get wakes me up in the night,and also I have a lot of wind.Ive had this pain for at least 8 months,and it seems to be getting worse,I can not bend ,which nearly makes it impossible to put my socks on

   I have been to my GP and explained about the small lump on my anus,which seems to go into my anus when you feel it,so he put his finger up my bum,and took a look at my anus,but said everything was ok,he sent me for a blood test,and also the poo on a stick test,which I did,but I have heard nothing back,which they said would be ok..I had the camera up my bum about 5 years ago,where they found a couple of polips,which they removed,tested and we're ok 

  I just know my own body, especially my poo habits,and poo sizes,which have totally changed to small heavy poo,and not that often am very worried,but don't want to pester the GP,due to already been once,when they found nothing wrong.

 I think I have told you everything,and await your reply,thank you.

  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    I would go back to your GP or another GP in the practice and explain that your symptoms do not seem to be getting better.

    If they are reluctant to send you for an urgent referral perhaps you can suggest that they refer you as a non urgent case.

    There are many different causes for a change in bowel habit other then cancer but it is important that anything serious is ruled out.

    It is reassuring that your tests are clear but you still need to find out the cause of your symptoms as I can understand that this must be having an impact on your working life.

    The lump in your anal area may well have been a haemorrhoid (pile) and it is good that this was checked by your GP.

    Whilst you are waiting for your appointment it may help to create a food diary to see if there is any trigger for some of your symptoms. 

    Hopefully the GP will also suggest some medication to help manage the pain you have been experiencing.

    I do hope that it settles down or you find out the cause soon.

    If you would like to ring and chat to one of the helpline nurses then you are welcome to do so.

    Our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are here Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Catherine

    Thank you very much Catherine,I feel reassure.

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