Haemoglobin stool test over 400.

I went to the Dr a few weeks ago as I have been feeling nauseous and tired. I got a couple of stool tests and a urine test. The receptionist called to say the results were in and the Dr woukd call me in a week to discuss them. I thought that because of the delay in the Dr speaking to me that here was nothing much to worry about but when he phoned he told me that a high level of haemoglobin had been detected in my stool sample which required further investigation. I phoned again the next day to ask what the level was and he told me it was over 400 and I would get notification of a colonoscopy. I'm 52 years old, no health problems, non smoker, non drinker, haven't had any reduction in weight and have not had any dark stools or any noticable blood in them. I do have haemorrhoids and sometimes notice red blood after wiping when they are sore. Having gone on to Google which I know isn't the best thing to do, I am now convinced I am doomed. I don't know what to do now, the waiting is terrible. 

  • Hi Farmerpalmer and thank you for posting,

    Anyone who has a FIT (faecal immunochemical test) that shows any amount of blood will be referred urgently for a colonoscopy. This happens whether the FIT result is 10 or 400. What matters is that hidden blood has been found, not the number itself.

    A higher FIT result does not mean you are more likely to have cancer. Many non‑cancerous conditions can cause a positive FIT, including polyps, haemorrhoids, and inflammatory bowel conditions. The urgent referral pathway simply helps people get checked and diagnosed as quickly as possible. Most people who are referred in this way do not have cancer. And if something abnormal is found, it means treatment can start sooner.

    Waiting for tests and results can understandably cause a lot of anxiety. Many people describe this period as one of the hardest parts, and it can feel very unsettling or out of your control. Some find it helpful to keep busy with their usual routines, while others may need to slow down. There is no wrong or right way.

    I hope you have supportive friends or family around you while you wait, and that you get answers soon. If you’d like to talk things through with one of our nurses, please do give us a call on our free helpline: 0808 800 4040 (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm).

    Jemma