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Rectal bleeding and bowel habits have changed

Debsymitch
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I've been having some blood when I've been going to the toilet and my bowel habits have changed from normal to liquid and maybe 5-6 times day , I have no appetite..... I'm scared still , my mum and dad and aunty all died from cancer .... All I can think is  this is it ... My turn ....  Can't get to a doctor until Tues , would it be worth going to a minor illness unit or a and e or just wait till Monday to see my own GP ...

Can anyone give me some advice xx

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    Hi Debsymitch, 

    It's normal to be scared when noticing changes in bowel habits and it is important to mention all these symptoms to your doctor so that they can look into it. If you feel you need medical advice over the weekend as you can't see a doctor until Tuesday, I would suggest you ring 111 and they will be able to point you in the right direction when you have described your symptoms to them. They will be able to tell you whether you should see an out of hours doctor over the weekend.

    I hope this helps a little and that things settle down for you. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

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    Try not to worry, there are dozens of conditions which give similar symptoms. Lucie’s advice is, as always, sound.

    Good luck!
    Dave

  • Agree with other two comments. There are a bunch of non-malignant conditions your symptoms can be consistent with, and are probably even more likely to be than cancer. I don't know how much A&E or walk-in can do for you unless your symptoms are causing agonising pain. As Lucy mentioned, it's best to give 111 call if you really don't think you can wait til Tuesday.

    When you do see your GP, ask them if you can have a stool sample test to do at home. Be sure to push for this if they don't recommend it.

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