Digestive and Bowel Disorders Forum - Sigmoid colon mass

Conditions and Diseases > Digestive and Bowel Disorders Forum > Sigmoid colon mass - diverticulitis ?

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Q: Sigmoid colon mass - diverticulitis ?

asked by: jnjquintal on June 3rd, 2009

New User

Hello.

Recently I have noticed a change in bowel habits and size of stool which is sometimes thin or like diarrhea with mucous. alternating with diarrhea and constipation.
Im feeling a "mass" right where my sigmoid colon is like if its swolen. I also have a dull heavy pain there, that comes and goes, and is usually relieved with a bowel movement. (but then it comes back.)
i am 23 years old.
I have been reading on the internet that pain in this area could signify diverticulitis.
I am hoping that its just impacted with stool.
The pain is not severe, it comes and goes, usually in waves, but it's a dull, heavy feeling.
Please tell me that there is something I can take.
Before doing invasive tests.

Replies(1)

Dr. Robert Wascher , MD

replied on June 20th, 2009

It is impossible to make a specific diagnosis over the Internet.

Diverticulitis, while it can occur, is rare in people your age (as is colorectal cancer). While your symptoms sound most consistent with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, you should ask your physician to refer you to a GI doctor, as you will probably require endoscopy of your rectum and colon as part of a work-up to exclude more serious bowel disorders.

Meanwhile, try to increase the fiber and water content of your diet, and try to avoid foods that significantly worsen your symptoms.

Sincerely/ Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS

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