What could be the reason for narrow stools with blood?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had seen blood in my stool, for which I consulted a doctor and sent the sample for testing; they confirmed that blood was found in it. Also, I have noticed that my stool size looks thinner and narrower than normal over a few occasions. I want to get some advice on what could be causing this and if I should be worried about getting further testing for colon cancer. Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

Please answer the following questions:

Do you have history of constipation?
Did you have any weight loss?
Did you have any lower abdominal pain?
Is it visible fresh red blood or microscopic blood?
Is there a family history of colon cancer?
Has any radiological imaging test been done for the abdomen recently?
Is any lab test suggestive of a low Hemoglobin level?

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The symptoms of colon cancer will vary according to the location of the tumor, and they are:

• Lesions of the right colon commonly ulcerate, leading to chronic, insidious blood loss without a change in the appearance of the stool and low hemoglobin in the lab test.

• In the transverse and descending colon, abdominal cramping and occasional obstruction can occur.

• In the rectosigmoid colon, symptoms are associated with hematochezia, tenesmus, and narrowing of the stool caliber.

There is no need to worry as you do not have these symptoms. The only change is the narrowing of the stool and blood-streaked stool, which can be due to other causes. For example, it can be due to anal fissures or internal hemorrhoids. I suggest a digital rectal examination and proctoscopy to avoid the above possibilities.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.