Hi Lil General,

 

Occult blood in the stool can have many causes, some of them serious, many more not so serious,  You did not say why the doctor performed this test so it's a little difficult to answer your question.  Was it part of a routine physical or were you having symptoms of some kind?

Naturally the first thing people thing of is colon cancer.  Usually this disorder presents with the passage of bright red blood red blood on defecation, pain, maybe cramping and fullness in the abdomen.  Stools are grossly bloody.

You mentioned colitis.  Colitis almost always involves diarrhea, bloody diarrhea it be exact and accompanied by severe cramping and bloating of the lower abdomen.  Believe me you'd be aware of it if you have colitis.

You could have colon polyps, diverticulitis. hemorrhoids or a bleeding ulcer.  When my ulcer bleeds the only way I know is by the color of my stool, it is almost black.

Not knowing what your symptoms are exactly and know ing your age would help.  In any case your physician was correct in referring you to a gastro who will most likely order a colonoscopy ( smile and say cheese!!!)  only joking they will sedate you and you will fall asleep.  It is frightening I know but try to relax, there is every chance things will be OK.

If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to ask.

God Bless,

 

Nurse Jinny