Feel fobbed off by GP about possible bowel cancer symptoms

Ive been displaying most symptoms of bowel cancer. Although i am younger i feel fobbed off by my GP just because im younger and its very uncommon. We all know our bodies better than anyone else and i just feel something isnt right. Ive already been told Gastritis, IBS and indigestion but nothing is getting better. I am scared that it could be more serious. But with how long its taking im scared at what it could be

  • Hello anonymous2708 and a warm welcome to Cancer Chat, 

    I am sorry to hear that you have been feeling fobbed off by your GP. You are right that we all know our bodies and can tell when something isn't quite right but there are so many bowel conditions, some of which can be chronic, that could explain your symptoms. It's important to bear in mind that bowel cancer would be the least common but you are absolutely right to flag all these symptoms and to point out that they haven't been getting better. I hope that you get a proper diagnosis soon.

    Perhaps it would reassure you to seek a second opinion? You can find out how to do that on this page. It may help to talk to another doctor or specialist about this and to get the reassurance you need at the moment. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Firstly do a qfit test. You can do this via a gp or online if you're not happy with your gp, but you'll need to pay. 
     

    GPs are not specialists, but they can recognise certain signs. A FBC won't diagnose a condition, but it helps a gp determine if further investigations are needed. You'll then be referred. 

    If you're not happy with what you're GP is saying, then you can always pay and go private. 

     

  • Hi

    I'm sorry you are feeling anxious. Please see another doctor. My doctor changed blood pressure tablets that made me so ill. I told him I had never felt so ill in my life. He said I had health anxiety. It turned out I have a tumour but its been going on for years after being told its ibs. Please dont let rhem fob you iff. Demand you have a fit test and if necessary a colonoscopy x stay strong and dont let them fob you off x

  • Hi there, my advice to you would be to keep pursuing and keep pushing for further tests - directly ask for a colonoscopy or a CT scan, I don't know how easy that is to do but it would clear up any doubts you may have..

    Please do trust your instincts and don't leave it. My Dad started to feel unwell in June of this year (75 years old, previously very fit for age cycling long miles) initially passing out along with digestive issues. They eventually diagnosed a hiatus hernia but he continued to lose weight rapidly. Only due to pushing and revisiting and questioning the GP did they then send him for the correct testing - colonoscopy, CT scan and blood test for CEA levels. He was diagnosed in Sep with stage 4 Bowel. We assumed they had performed cancer checks back in June and trusted them system, I now do not trust and question everything - ask questions and speak out. 

    I am sure you are okay but don't leave it, it's too important to trust one GPs advice when you don't feel it is right. Make sure you challenge it. 

    Wish you all the best Xx