Cancer symptoms diagnosed too late
Bri Mahon, a 31-year-old mother of two, recently shared her experience with bowel cancer on TikTok. Despite experiencing symptoms for several years, Bri never suspected that cancer could be the cause.
“When I thought of cancer, I never imagined an active, incredibly healthy 31-year-old with energy. It still feels very surreal to me to have my diagnosis,” Bri told BuzzFeed News.
Bri, who resides in Newport Beach, California, first noticed digestive issues such as irritation and bloating. She underwent blood tests, but nothing concerning was found. However, two years ago, Bri began experiencing a sharp increase in anxiety and fatigue, which she now believes may have been related to the growing tumor in her abdomen.
“I was having panic attacks, and I think it’s just because my body was really, really, really tired and going through whatever it’s going through, growing a tumor,” Bri explained.
Last September, Bri went into labor prematurely at 23 weeks and gave birth to twins. After the delivery, she started noticing blood in her stool, which she initially attributed to hemorrhoids from pregnancy and her existing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
“I thought it was stress. I thought it was depression. I thought it was anxiety, kind of all these things coming up again,” Bri said.
Unfortunately, the symptoms persisted and worsened over time. Bri began seeing blood in her stool more regularly, and the color eventually turned from red to dark red. Her bowel movements also changed, alternating between extreme constipation and the passage of dark blood.
Concerned that something was seriously wrong, Bri sought medical attention and was referred to a gastroenterologist. The specialist scheduled a colonoscopy, which led to Bri’s diagnosis of stage 3 bowel cancer. Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, can occur in the colon or rectum.
Bri’s symptoms, including blood in stools and changes in bowel habits, are considered tell-tale signs of bowel cancer, according to the NHS UK.
Bri is now undergoing treatment for her cancer, and she hopes that sharing her story will raise awareness about the importance of early detection and prompt medical attention.
It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the potential signs and symptoms of bowel cancer, such as persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in stools, unexplained weight loss, and abdominal pain. If any of these symptoms are present, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis for individuals with bowel cancer. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, are recommended for individuals over the age of 50 or those with a family history of the disease.
Bri’s journey serves as a reminder that cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. It is essential to listen to our bodies and seek medical attention if something feels off.
how i knew i had stomach cancer
Ibuted to postpartum issues. However, the bleeding continued, and Bri’s symptoms worsened, including unexplained weight loss and persistent abdominal pain.
Unfortunately, like Bri, many people with cancer experience delayed diagnoses due to symptoms being overlooked or attributed to other causes. This is particularly true for certain types of cancer, including colon cancer.
According to Mayo Clinic, colon cancer can have non-specific symptoms in the early stages, often leading to missed or delayed diagnosis. Some of the common symptoms of colon cancer include changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, persistent abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can be indicative of various conditions, and not everyone who experiences them will have colon cancer. However, if you or a loved one is experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention for further evaluation.
Early detection of colon cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes and increase the likelihood of successful recovery. Screening methods such as colonoscopy can help detect precancerous polyps or early-stage cancer before symptoms even develop. Regular screenings are especially important for individuals at higher risk, such as those with a family history of colon cancer or certain genetic conditions.
In conclusion, Bri’s experience highlights the importance of taking symptoms seriously and advocating for further evaluation when necessary. If you or someone you know is concerned about cancer symptoms or has a family history of cancer, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper assessment and diagnosis.
This article highlights the heartbreaking reality of bowel cancer misdiagnosis, shedding light on the crucial need for heightened awareness and early detection. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and responding to late cancer symptoms with urgency, potentially saving lives in the process.