Concerns about Blood in Stool and Other Symptoms

Have you had a colonoscopy before? It's a very simple, generally painless procedure. The preparation is worse than the procedure as you have to go on a clear liquid diet for 24-48 hours prior to the procedure, and you are given medication (either a liquid drink or pills) that make your digestive system "clean itself out." Basically, TONS of diarrhea. But as long as you're prepared, even that part is not too bad. The actual procedure is generally done under sedation. So you'll either be conscious, but unaware of what's going on or, in most cases, taking a nice nap. Then they stick a very thin tube with a light and a camera into your anus so they can get a good look (and maybe a biopsy or two) at your colon. At your age, it may be more difficult to convince a doctor for one. I would ask your family doctor to refer you to a gastroenterologist. I was 43 when I had my first one. And yeah, I was terrified at the whole idea. But once I started the prep, I realized it really isn't that bad. Sure, you spend most of the day in the bathroom, but yeah. It's just one day. And I'll admit, the thought of a doctor sticking something up my butt felt embarrassing, but I had to remind myself that they do this EVERY DAY. They see a lot of butts! They've seen it all, and there's nothing to be embarrassed about.

I agree with seeing a doctor ASAP. My sister had some pretty bad internal fissures with these symptoms. She needs daily fiber, Miralax and sometimes has to use some cream, I'm forgetting what it is. This isn't medical advice from me, I do think a good doctor would be best to check things out and find out what's going on with you in order to receive treatment you need. Wishing you luck. 🩷