Waiting for bowel cancer diagnosis

My husband was going to the loo more often than usual, he was fine in himself no pain no weight loss. Then he told me about bleeding and said he had piles, so told him to get some cream, then suppositories.

This went on for several months or longer and when he told me more detail I said he must see gp, he did and it was urgent referral to hospital. He had bleeding, mucus far more bowel movements and faecal test was blood positive.

Today he had a colonoscopy no piles no polyps but a a big whatever it was (which he had felt himself as it dropped from his rectum) they took 6 biopsies and now has to have an mri scan

We know they are checking for cancer and things point to that is what it could be, but until biopsy results and mri it is a waiting game.

I just feel sick at the possibility of bad results and what my husband may have to go through.

We are trying not to worry and to keep occupied but it’s there in the back of my mind and it is now another waiting game.

It has all happened so quickly from seeing gp to having scope today.

Any advice would be appreciated

I work on the basis think the worse then a nice surprise when it is not, rather than thinking all is ok then you get a shock 

Thanks Lottie

  • Hello Lottie. 

    I'm sorry to hear about the recent health problems that your husband has been dealing with and that you now both find yourselves waiting for further testing and results. It's perfectly understandable that you will be experiencing a whole range of emotions at the moment. 

    We know that for many people this period of waiting and uncertainty can be difficult and lots of members here would agree that often once you have a firm diagnosis and know what you're facing that things become just a little easier. Hopefully your husband won't have to wait too long for his MRI and when he goes to see the Consultant they will have a full diagnosis to be able to give you both. 

    Try to avoid searching for information online at the moment if you can. Lots of what you might find can be inaccurate or based on worst-case scenarios. This often leaves people feeling more anxious and still with many unanswered questions. 

    If you think it may help to talk things through with one of our nurses then you're most welcome to give them a call. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. They may also be able to help you think about some of the questions you or your husband might want to ask the specialists. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Keep in touch Lottie. Let us know how you both get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator