Bowel Issues: Signs of Colon Cancer and When to Seek Help

Issues related to bowel movements?

Hello, doctor.
Thank you for taking the time to respond despite your busy schedule.
Since my mother is a colorectal cancer patient, I have been particularly attentive to related issues.
Recently, I experienced constipation for a while, but after increasing my intake of vegetables, fluids, and yogurt, I was able to have bowel movements, although the process required significant effort.
I have also noticed that my stools have become thinner and less frequent.
The width of my stools ranges between one to two fingers of an adult male, and they often come out in segments rather than in one continuous piece like a banana.
The color is still a yellowish-brown to coffee color.
Although I am quite scared that it might be colorectal cancer, I am maintaining a wait-and-see approach because I believe that my recent academic stress could also be a contributing factor.
I plan to decide whether to seek a colonoscopy after some observation.
Therefore, I would like to ask the doctor, "If I want to monitor for possible symptoms of colorectal cancer, what would be an appropriate observation period?" and "Aside from stool characteristics, are there other methods to identify signs of colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal diseases?"

A-Hong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/16

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, in addition to the appearance of stool, you can also check for any recent unusual weight loss or abdominal pain.
If there are none, the likelihood is low.
Another simple screening tool is the fecal occult blood test, which can be performed at most laboratories.
If the test result is negative for occult blood, the chance of having colorectal cancer is very low.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2022/06/16

More Info

When it comes to bowel issues, particularly in the context of potential signs of colon cancer, it's crucial to be vigilant and informed. Given your family history of colon cancer, your concerns are valid and warrant careful consideration.
Firstly, let's address the symptoms you've described: experiencing constipation, requiring significant effort to pass stool, and noticing changes in the shape and size of your bowel movements. The fact that your stools have become thinner and segmented can be concerning, as these changes can sometimes indicate an obstruction or narrowing in the colon, which may be associated with conditions such as colon cancer. However, it’s also important to note that changes in bowel habits can result from a variety of factors, including dietary changes, stress, and gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

In terms of monitoring your symptoms, it is advisable to keep a close eye on any further changes in your bowel habits over the next few weeks. If you continue to experience difficulty with bowel movements, or if you notice any additional symptoms such as blood in your stool, significant weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, or changes in appetite, it would be prudent to seek medical attention sooner rather than later. Generally, if symptoms persist for more than a couple of weeks without improvement, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.

Regarding your question about how often to observe for potential symptoms of colon cancer, a good rule of thumb is to monitor your condition for about two weeks. If you notice persistent changes or worsening symptoms, it would be wise to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation, which may include a colonoscopy. This procedure is the gold standard for diagnosing colon cancer and can also help identify other gastrointestinal issues.

In addition to monitoring your stool characteristics, there are other signs and symptoms to be aware of that could indicate a problem with your colon. These include:
1. Unexplained Weight Loss: If you are losing weight without trying, it could be a sign of a serious condition.

2. Persistent Abdominal Pain: Ongoing discomfort or pain in the abdomen that does not resolve can be a warning sign.

3. Changes in Appetite: A significant decrease in appetite or feeling full after eating only a small amount can be concerning.

4. Blood in Stool: This can appear as red blood or dark, tarry stools and should always be evaluated by a doctor.

5. Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness can sometimes be linked to anemia caused by internal bleeding.

It’s also important to consider lifestyle factors that can impact your bowel health. A diet high in fiber, adequate hydration, and regular physical activity are essential for maintaining healthy bowel function. Stress management techniques may also be beneficial, as stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to stress or dietary changes, it is essential to remain vigilant, especially given your family history. Monitoring your symptoms closely and seeking medical advice if they persist or worsen is the best course of action. Early detection is key in managing any potential health issues, including colon cancer, so do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

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