Worrying myself sick (bowel cancer concern) - is anybody else going through this?

Hello

Is anybody else going through something similar, perhaps been on this journey longer than me and can offer words of support?

I had chronic pain 10 days ago in my abdomen, saw my GP 8 days ago who arranged several blood tests, stool tests (fit and calprotectin), both of which have since tested positive, all bloods (except CRP, which is raised and has been for about 2 years)) and urine are normal. No weight loss, no fevers, and that chronic pain hasn't returned (10 days now).

I am being treated for an autoimmune disease with hydroxychloroquine (and have had horrendous side effects including diarrhea, hair loss). Might also be worth saying I have had to take ibuprofen and naproxen to help cope with the pain in my wrists, legs and feet associated with the autoimmune disease, for +-2 years when needed.

I have been put on the 2 WW Colorectal straight to test, and have been told a cancer nurse will be phoning me on Thursday (to set up a colonoscopy).

I am absolutely terrified. I am not sleeping, feel miserable and struggling to get into the xmas spirit, even though I have a young child who is looking forward to xmas.

Anybody been through something similar?

Thanks

  • Hello AleJam and welcome to the forum.

    I'm sorry to hear your calprotectin and FIT tests came back positive and that you've now been referred for a colonoscopy.

    I hope the cancer nurse you've spoken to today was able to put your mind at ease about your upcoming procedure and any other concerns you have about your situation at the present time, but if you'd like to discuss this further with one of our cancer nurses, you can give them a call on 0808 800 4040. Their helpline is open Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m and they will do all they can to answer your questions and support you through this anxious and uncertain time.

    I hope it helps to know that a lot of our members have been in a similar position, so you are not alone AleJam, and hopefully some of them will offer their support and advice to you soon.

    Do let us know how you're getting on when you can, and we'll have our fingers crossed everything for good news.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator