Worried about bowel cancer at 23

Hello! 
 

unfortunately I have recently been experiencing blood in my stools, inconsistent bowel habits and stomach/back cramps. 
 

as I'm only 23 so was very laidback about it but thought I should get checked out just to be safe. 
 

anyway after I was examined at the gp by two different drs I was sat down and told they could feel a mass up there. Fortunately they have referred me to the specialists so will be seen soon. 
 

However the Dr telling me to try not to worry about it too much has only made me more stressed. 

Am I overthinking this? I know I'm so young so it would be rare but they didn't say anything else is could be.  

  • Welcome to Cancer Chat, Joanne21.

    I'm sorry to hear about your situation but I'm glad you went to have your symptoms checked and the doctors referred you to the specialist.

    After being told they could feel a mass during the examination it is easy to understand why you're concerned but do try to take the doctor's advice and don't worry too much before you have a chance to be seen again as stress rarely helps in these cases. If you can, try to focus your mind on other things for the time being.

    Once you know more, please come back and give us an update. We're keeping our fingers crossed that the specialist will find nothing sinister.

    With best wishes,

    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator