What are the chances that I have colon cancer?

[rainingsunshine95]

I know it seems like a trite question... But I'm 19 years old, I was diagnosed with IBS 2 years ago, and was also found to be lactose intolerant 1 year ago. I have been constipated every now and then, and other times, my stool is looser. However, I've never seen blood until a few months ago.
I occasionally see it in the stool, and when just a little bit (barely visible) on the toilet paper.
I am freaking out, I am way too young to have colon cancer right? I have no family history, I exercise, I don't smoke, and I drink on occasion but it's not a habit. Thoughts?

[southernbelle22]

Hello.
My name is Elizabeth and i was diagnosed with colon polyps at age 18.
i would have had colon cancer within 3 months if i didn't get a biopsy done, but i do have cancer in my family.
i do recommend to get an endoscopy and colonoscopy done just in case.

[Caryopteris]

If you don't figure it out, don't be afraid to have colonoscopy and upper endoscopy.  The prep is no fun, but the procedures are easy due to the medications that put you almost to sleep.  

[Caryopteris]

You may just be deficient in magnesium.  Try taking 500 mg in the morning.

Try eating a piece of fruit such as an apple all by itself as a snack every day.  Apples have a good kind of fiber.  Chew thoroughly.  

Avoid soy.  You could get tested for Celiac disease.  Pay attention to foods and what makes you feel bad.  Popcorn or nuts cause discomfort?  Acidic foods?  Try stopping carbonated drinks.

Try Metamucil.  It may help you or make things worse - only you can test it and see.  This comes in capsule form as well as powder.