Four Warning Signs of Bowel Cancer to Watch for During Bathroom Use
The NHS has issued crucial advice for the public to watch out for four symptoms of bowel cancer when using the bathroom, stressing that early detection improves treatment outcomes.
Guidance emphasizes the importance of checking for key signs like persistent stomach pains and unexplained fatigue, which could indicate undiagnosed cancer. Regular monitoring during bathroom visits is recommended. Individuals experiencing symptoms listed on the official NHS website for more than three weeks, especially those noticing blood in their stool or unusual bowel patterns, are urged to consult a medical professional promptly.
According to the NHS, changes in stool consistency such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, as well as alterations in bowel frequency, are potential early indicators of bowel cancer. The guidance also highlights visible blood in the stool, which may appear red or black, and rectal bleeding as concerning signs to watch for.
Additional symptoms include a persistent urge to defecate even after using the toilet, abdominal pain, or the presence of a lump in the abdomen. Bloating and unintended weight loss are also flagged as significant indicators requiring medical attention.
NHS guidelines advise scheduling a GP appointment if symptoms persist for more than three weeks. Urgent consultation is recommended for individuals experiencing dark or bloody stools, or severe rectal bleeding. Immediate medical attention, including calling emergency services, is crucial for cases of continuous rectal bleeding or significant blood loss.
While these symptoms can be caused by various conditions, not necessarily cancerous, it is essential to seek medical evaluation to rule out serious conditions like bowel cancer. Early detection plays a pivotal role in improving treatment outcomes, underscoring the importance of prompt medical assessment.
Annually, nearly 43,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with bowel cancer, with a significant number being microsatellite stable (MSS). Ongoing research into immunotherapy treatments like Botensilimab and Balstilimab offers hope for improved outcomes, reflecting advancements in cancer treatment.
In summary, awareness of these symptoms and proactive medical consultation are crucial steps in managing bowel health and potentially detecting cancer early when treatment may be most effective.
Here are the key symptoms of bowel cancer to be vigilant about:
- Changes in bowel habits, such as experiencing softer stools, diarrhea, or constipation. Also, noticing a need to use the bathroom more or less frequently than usual, and the presence of blood in your stool, can indicate bowel cancer.
- Abdominal pain or the discovery of a lump in the abdomen.
- Persistent bloating or unexplained weight loss.
- Fatigue or feeling excessively tired without a clear cause. Bowel cancer can lead to anemia, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and headaches.