Stool tests

[Grumblina]

Since having a course of antibiotics I’ve experienced loose stools with mucus in it. It’s been 4 weeks in which time my anxiety has rocketed and now I’m a gibberish wreck.

GP has taken samples today for FIT test, calprotectin and bacteria.

All I can think of is that the fit test is for cancer and I’m terrified.

I’m 38. Have no other symptoms whatsoever.

What are your experiences of these tests?

[SirTobyBelch]

FIT (faecal immunochemical test) is a specific test for human blood in the sample, so it doesn't give a false postive if you've eaten a rare steak or horseradish. Blood in the stools could come from inflammatory bowel disease (also tested for by calprotectin), diverticulosis, physical trauma, ulcers, ischaemic colitis, angiodysplasia or lots of other causes. If the symptoms were triggered by an antibiotic, cancer seems a less likely explanation - pseudomembranous colitis might be more likely - but they have to be careful to systematically test for every possibility. Whatever it is, it's best to identify it early.

Hope you're okay.

[Grumblina]

I’m a complete mess if I’m honest. Worried sick