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Occasional Heartburn, Blood In Stool And Constipation. Taking Metamucil. Past Colonoscopy Normal. History Of Hemorrhoids

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Posted on Thu, 28 Jun 2012
Question: I had colonoscopy about 18 months ago and everything was fine and I am not due for another one for another 18 months. Lately, I have seen dark strands in my stool. I am also experiencing an occasional heartburn. I am taking Metamucil in capsule form every day because I am often constipated. This is due to the fact that I try not to eat certain fatty food. I also have hemorrhoids and lately have seen fresh blood in my stool. I am booked for a check up but wanted to know if all this means something serious. Thank you.
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Answered by Dr. Andrew Rynne MD (1 hour later)
Hi there. Thank you for posting your question with XXXXXXX I will do my best to help you.

I'm not sure. I do not like the sound of this. Just to be safe, I think you should bring the date of your next colonoscopy forwards to right now. This would be particularly so if you have a family history of bowel cancer. But even if you have no such family history I would still be inclined to repeat endoscopy now. It is too important.

Those other things you mention there, heartburn, piles, medications etc are not relevant I think.


I hope that I have answered your questions fully and been of some help. If you have any more questions please contact me again anytime.

Dr Andrew Rynne.
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E
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Dr. Andrew Rynne MD

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1968

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Occasional Heartburn, Blood In Stool And Constipation. Taking Metamucil. Past Colonoscopy Normal. History Of Hemorrhoids

Hi there. Thank you for posting your question with XXXXXXX I will do my best to help you.

I'm not sure. I do not like the sound of this. Just to be safe, I think you should bring the date of your next colonoscopy forwards to right now. This would be particularly so if you have a family history of bowel cancer. But even if you have no such family history I would still be inclined to repeat endoscopy now. It is too important.

Those other things you mention there, heartburn, piles, medications etc are not relevant I think.


I hope that I have answered your questions fully and been of some help. If you have any more questions please contact me again anytime.

Dr Andrew Rynne.