Question Title: 3 Years Since Flexible Sig

Posted by HFHSM.D.-rf on April 16, 1999 at 21:23:02

Topic Area: Colon Cancer

Three years ago (age 33) I began to have bright red blood appear on surface of stool and on toilet tissue. Family doctor diagnosed an anal fissure. Approximately five months later bleeding started again so I went to another doctor who sent me to a gastro. The Dr. performed a FS and found nothing except for small inflamed area which he contributed to the bleeding. Prescribed metamucil, suppositories, and said some drs. believe inflammations such as this may never heal. The bleeding has come and gone throughout the 3 years after FS. I am concerned again (actually worried to death!) and plan to see the dr. again in the next week. No history of colon cancer in family. Just would like to get your thoughts (hopefully reassuring).

Thanks! - Marianne

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Dear Marianne,
Most of the time bleeding like that which you describe does not represent serious disease. Blood that is onm the surface of the stool or separate from the stool is indicative of a rectal or anal process and can be identified by flexible sigmoidoscopy.

Blood that is mixed with the stool indicates a bleeding site in the more proximal colon. In these cases, a colonoscopy is needed to exclude serious pathology.

This information is presented for educational purposes. Ask specific questions to your personal physician.

HFHSM.D.-rf
*keywords: rectal bleeding
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