Sick of this!

Oh Angela.. that must have been distressing for you, but don’t be too hard on yourself. Is this something that happens regularly or was it a one off? 

I’m sorry this happened so far out from treatment, but if it was a one off are you sure it’s connected? Could it have been anything else that caused it?

Where are you with your check ups? If it’s something that’s a problem I would mention it. It could be late effects, and some hospitals do have late effects clinics. In any event, you should flag it up if it’s a problem for you and see what can be done to help you.

Sarah xx

Hi Sarah. Hope you're well? 

Sadly it's not a 1 off . Treatment has left me with BAM so it's definitely an ongoing thing. They gave me pills that don't help much, and it's impacting my quality of life regarding going out in public but I'm so thankful I was home when it happened (I usually am) . Thanks for listening, I just needed a rant lol.

Angela xx

Hi Angela

Sorry, I forgot you had BAM. I definitely understand the impact on quality of life. With 2 stomas I have zero control over either and a leaking or burst bag can be catastrophic, so I get nervous about being out of the house. Last weekend we had visitors and at one point I only just managed to get up the stairs in time enough to avoid an embarrassing scene! 

Sarah xx

I feel your pain Sarah  That's my worst fear, being in company or even worse out in public and having an accident. It's quite severe but I manage it ok but was just fed up as I had a great evening with my chum and then this happens! Thank God I live alone lol xx

I’ve had it happen when I’m out, in the car, in a cafe..all sorts. Thankfully usually at home where it can be catastrophic at times. Put it like this, I throw a lot of underwear away! It is absolutely horrible though when it happens, especially if I’m on my own because two hands are not enough to deal with a burst colostomy bag!

Sarah xx

Oh Sarah I'm laughing away here at your underwear in the bin lol (I'm the same) It must be so difficult for you. But we do learn to manage xx

Hi Sarah,

So in light of the above subject and also weight loss. My GP ordered a stool sample and it's came back abnormal! It's either 13 or 16? When it should b below 10..she said the surgeons would probably ring me about further investigations. Surgeons like? I ddnt even ask anything coz my head was spinning but I'm gonna head to bowel cancer forum to see if there's any advice on there. I'm keeping everything crossed but just thought I'd update you.

Angela xx

Hi Angela

I’m assuming you are talking about a FIT test? It’s important to remember that the test is about detecting blood in stool and there can be many reasons for this such as piles or a fissure etc. I’m not sure if your BAM could be the cause.

Your result is only just over the “normal” number of 10. I’ve seen people with results in the hundreds who have a condition other than cancer. 

The next investigation would normally be a colonoscopy to have a good look at your bowel-please try not to scare yourself in the bowel cancer group. Remember most people there will already have a bowel cancer diagnosis, and it won’t necessarily be helpful for you to be reading their stories at this point. 

I hope it turns out to be nothing to worry about-the test you have had done is not for cancer.

Sarah xx

Yes Sarah my GP said the result is very borderline and to try not worry, I think it's all just too raw  from my treatment but il keep you posted xx

It is very borderline, but extra testing would be standard. I’m just concerned you will make yourself very anxious in a bowel cancer group with people who have already had a cancer diagnosis, so just take care of yourself.

Sarah xx