I am in my early 20s. I had a painful bowel movement a few weeks ago and noticed a small amount of bright red blood on the toilet paper and in the bowl.I went to my GP who believes it to be an anal fissure but was unable to see it on visual examination so I am having an anoscopy this week. There is no colon cancer in my family, I am otherwise healthy, eat well and energetic. But I am very anxious over this. What are the odds that this is something more serious? I am new to this whole thing and couldn't think of anyone else to ask to give me some insight. Please respond.

I remain anxious and have so little information from folks I thought could help me understand what all this means. If this is not the right place, can someone give me the name of another similar forum?

It's natural to be apprehensive when you see blood in an area where it definitely should not be appearing. I think the odds of it being something sinister are very low if you're otherwise in good health. The anoscopy will give you a clear picture I think, and hopefully will be done in a way that won't cause more pain. Try not to worry and take measures to keep your BMs softer and regular. You will find many tips about this on the forum.

Thank you. Hearing calming words from my those who know is so helpful.