Question:
The past 3 years I've been suffering from chronic constipation. When I finally do make a BM, it consists of small solid turds, the power feces, blood, liquid, and puss. There's blood and puss on the toilet paper also. Usually my constipation only lasts 3 to4 days but its been 9 days now and I am worried. I don't have health insurance and I desire to see a doctor but I can't. This situation in general is really stressing me out and depressing me. Can anyone give me advise or help me in anyway. Thanks
Answer:
I wonder how old you are. I ask that because a change in bowel habits, blood and pus are alarming symptoms and, depending on your age, you should be screened for colon cancer. I'm not at all saying that I think you have colon cancer and I'm not trying to scare you, but these symptoms should be taken seriously. If you are in your teens, then cancer isn't something that is likely. However, if you are an adult, it might be. The blood in or with your bowel movements could simply be due to straining during the movement. The pus could be due to a condition known as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). I seriously am urging you to have a colonoscopy. It's a simple procedure and you are given a sedative and a pain reliever intravenously so the worst part about the whole test is the prep (running to the bathroom so often) the day prior. You need to rule out things here. I know that any procedure is costly when you don't have insurance, but in your situation, it would be the smartest test to have. Many health department agencies have plans where they offer free screenings to people who cannot afford them. Also, if you mention to a surgeon that you don't have insurance, he/she will often reduce their fee. You can always make small payments, also. Many hospitals have sliding fees and you end up paying very little to nothing at all, depending on your income. A general surgeon is the doctor you need to be referred to. Please don't wait too long. Make some calls soon!

Answer:
Maybe try to incorporating more fiber into your diet. Even a daily dose of Metamucil would be of help to you. A daily walking routine would help you, as well. A sigmoidoscopy is very limited and would only reveal the health of your large colon to up to about 8 inches. The large intestine is about 5 feet long! A colonoscopy examines clear to the cecum. At some point, you really should think about undergoing a colonoscopy so you can be certain that there aren't any underlying problems or a disease. It really would be worth it - Hope you will feel better soon!