A small amount of the stool is placed on a special test strip and the stool is analyzed for traces of blood. A flexible sigmoidoscopy is employed to look at the rectum and lower colon. Prior to a versatile sigmoidoscopy, your colon must be beyond stool to enable good visibility. Preparations may include a diet, an enema, and laxatives. The symptoms of colon cancer and rectal cancer are similar to the symptoms of other colon diseases. If you experience the following symptoms, consult your physician for a proper diagnosis are Bloody stool, Unexplained diarrhea, A long period of constipation, Abdominal cramps, A decrease in size or caliber of stool, Gas pain, bloating or a feeling of fullness, Unexplained weight loss, Lethargy and vomiting, Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis.
Fecal Occult Blood Test this test looks for occult (hidden) blood in the stool. A fecal occult blood test involves as follows i.e. you will receive three small cards. Place a sample from three consecutive bowel movements on each card.