Your bowel movements can reveal a lot about your health. They are an essential part of the digestive process and can indicate the presence of an underlying medical condition. One such condition is cancer.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye on the signs of cancer in your stool to detect colorectal cancer early and improve your chances of survival.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. The colon and rectum are parts of the large intestine, which is the lower part of the digestive system.

The cancer develops from abnormal growths, called polyps, in the colon or rectum.

Signs of Cancer in Your Stool

Here are some signs of cancer in your stool to watch out for:.

1. Blood in the Stool

Blood in the stool, also known as rectal bleeding or hematochezia, is one of the most common signs of colorectal cancer. It can appear as bright red blood on the toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or in the stool itself.

However, blood in the stool can also be an indication of other conditions such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, so it is best to get it checked by a doctor.

2. Changes in Stool Color or Consistency

If your stool is darker than usual or black, it may indicate the presence of blood in the upper gastrointestinal tract. On the other hand, if your stool is lighter in color than normal or clay-colored, it may indicate a bile duct obstruction.

Consistency changes, such as narrow or ribbon-like stools, may also indicate colorectal cancer.

3. Persistent Diarrhea or Constipation

If you experience persistent diarrhea or constipation, it may also indicate colorectal cancer. This is because tumors can cause blockages or narrowing in the colon or rectum, leading to changes in bowel habits.

If you have been experiencing either for more than a few days, you should contact your doctor as it could be a symptom.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss is another sign that you should be checking for if you notice any symptoms. A sudden and unexplained loss of weight could mean that there is an underlying medical condition, such as colorectal cancer, causing it.

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It is better to get it checked immediately before anything happens.

5. Abdominal Pain or Cramping

Cramping, abdominal bloating or gas pains, and abdominal pain are also possible symptoms of colorectal cancer.

Usually, these symptoms don’t occur until later stages of the cancer, but in some cases where the cancer is small or confined to the rectum, you can have pain still.

6. Nausea or Vomiting

Feeling nauseous or vomiting could be a sign of many things, one of which is colorectal cancer. If you find yourself experiencing these symptoms alongside abdominal pain or cramping, it is best to get checked up on by a doctor.

7. Sensation of Incomplete Evacuation or Fullness

If you’re experiencing a sensation of incomplete evacuation, like you haven’t fully emptied your bowels, even after you’ve had a bowel movement, or you feel fullness when you haven’t eaten a significant meal, you should be getting it checked. These sensations could indicate the presence of a tumor in the colon or rectum.

8. Changes in Bowel Habits

Any significant changes in bowel habits that last more than a few weeks, such as going more or less often, should also be monitored. These changes may point to colorectal cancer and should immediately be communicated to your physician.

9. Weakness or Fatigue

One of the lesser-discussed signs of colorectal cancer is weakness or fatigue. This occurs because cancer cells consume the body’s energy reserves, leading to tiredness and weakness.

Even if you have many reasons that may cause fatigue, if it is paired up with suspicions that cancer may be the cause, a visit to a physician would not hurt.

10. Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia could be another sign of colorectal cancer as it could mean the presence of blood loss from the body. The presence of blood in the stool could indicate the presence of tumors, leading to anemia.

If you have any doubts about your symptoms, you should see your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Bowel movements can provide a wealth of information about our overall health, and any signs of cancer in your stool should not be taken lightly. If you notice any of the above symptoms, you should consult your physician.

While these symptoms don’t necessarily indicate cancer, early detection and treatment can increase your chances of survival dramatically. Understanding the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer can help you protect your health.