My 66 year old Mum developed a swollen tummy on 11th April - previously no symptoms. She had a scan which showed metastases in her liver,lungs and peritoneum. A biopsy revealed adenocarcinoma ( biliary tract or colon primary) which was untreatable. she died May 13th. Now I am concerned about what signs I need to watch for. Since having had my children I get occasional constipation with resultant rectal piles which sometime bleed. Occasional I will feel sore a little higher up the rectum. I don't really have diarrhoea - but if I have go out for a rich meal with alcohol my stools are somewhat looser. On a couple of occasions, whilst trying to pass a stool I have experienced pain which has caused me to be very light headed ( usually when I am constipated). I am 38 years old and need to know if I have to pay a visit to my doctor as scared as I may be.

A colonoscopy is the best test so far. You might be getting to an age where it is a good idea to have one done every few years especially since your Mom had CC.

Get one arranged for now to put your mind at ease.

Get scheduled for a colonoscopy now. My sister-in-law passed away on May 16, 2006 from colorectal cancer. She was only 39 years old. Your bleeding and problems may be due to hemrrhoids or something else but it is better to be safe. My sister-in-law had very few symptoms before being diagnosed.

Firstly, I am so sorry to hear about your mother. It must have been a terrible shock to have her diagnosed so soon before she died. I can imagine your concern for your own health now and I would agree that you should be checked out for your peace of mind. Your symptoms are probably not colon cancer but it will put your mind at rest if you get thoroughly checked.