My issues started in November 2021 I was 47, nothing much just a tiny bit of blood and itch was also little bit painful when sitting, just piles will get cream or suppository it’ll be fine I thought - maybe cut back on the Prosecco / too many late nights !!
February 2022 I went to visit my sister and had an accident before I could use the loo! The shame ! So I started using Loperamide, then the constipation started and the pain got a little worse each month until in September 2022 I was in a lot of pain and was not sleeping, mostly dull Pain in my coccyx and feeling like I needed the toilet constantly. I went to my GP - finally got an appointment ! Just usual prescription for piles and offered a blood test which I took - next appointment was October for smear and wellness, I attended this and the bloods where fine- Perfect actually, smear also fine - but still in considerable pain, finally started taking nurofen 400mg for the days pain management and night time.
my life was ruled by pain management and needing the loo urgently - there was always blood , bright red usually which indicated (doctor google!) that the bleeding was lower down the colon / rectum.
i broke down in tears after Christmas- I told my husband I think I’m dying!
I finally went to A&E in January 2023, and had another examination, more cream and more suppository!! I went to a private consultant at Nuffield as the pain was unbearable by end of January 23.
my bisopsy and tests revealed I had stage 2 tumor - no spread (T2- N2 - M0) colorectal/ anal cancer - I couldn’t even say the word I was so embarrassed- I thought - how? Why ? Disbelief!!
so my treatment to cure this was chemo radiation - 5.5 weeks of this, each week day - thankfully I was supported my husband and family - plus work had been amazing, I finished this in June 23 - I am very lucky now just waiting on mri and Ct results - fingers crossed It’s gone and I can live well again.
I have post pelvic radiation issues, which include sharp pain when I go and dietary issues where I get constipated or run’s depending on food / drink. I hope these subside or possibly more surgery when I get my results - will keep you posted !
thanks and love to all warriors x
