Dr. Ajeet Kumar
Medical Gastroenterology
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am 49 years old. Six weeks ago, I passed a loose stool and noticed some blood in it. About five days later, it happened again. My abdomen was tender and swollen. My doctor suggested I do a stool sample, blood tests, and colonoscopy. I do not have any symptoms from the last five weeks, except for a nervous tummy at times due to my anxiety. My blood test reports are normal. However, my stool tests show an elevated calprotectin. Though my doctor has reassured me that it is an indicator of inflammatory bowel disease, I am petrified that it can be bowel cancer. Currently, I am using tablet Nurofen for my back issues. I have no weight loss and have a healthy appetite.
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern. An elevated calprotectin is not indicative of cancer. It is just an inflammatory marker that indicates that there is an inflammation in the bowel. Also, the tablet Nurofen (Ibuprofen) can cause small and large intestines ulcers. As you are reaching 50 years of age, I suggest you go for a colonoscopy. Also, as you do not have any weight loss, there is nothing serious like cancer. Benign conditions like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, solitary rectal ulcer syndrome, or polyps can also cause rectal bleeding.
I hope this helps.
Kindly revert in case of further doubts.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for your response.
I was a bit worried as I did not have any symptoms related to inflammatory bowel disease and thought it was more likely cancer.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Anxiety is common when blood is noticed in the stools. However, as many benign conditions can also cause it, I suggest you get a colonoscopy.
I hope this helps.
Thank you.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Medical Gastroenterology
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
