Is Your Changing Stool a Sign of Colon Cancer? the Symptoms

Q: Is Your Changing Stool a Sign of Colon Cancer? the Symptoms

Hello, Miss： If you are concerned, you can first conduct a stool test to check for occult blood, which can help initially rule out colorectal cancer. <br>Loose stools are mostly caused by diet (high in oil and dairy, or eating too quickly) or individual variations in gastrointest

Is this colorectal cancer?

Hello doctor, my bowel movements used to be normal, occurring daily and in well-formed shapes.
However, since moving out for college, my stools have occasionally become loose.
I thought it might be due to eating out, so I didn't think much of it.
After graduating, I spent the last couple of years eating out more frequently, and the incidence of loose stools has increased.
Sometimes, I also experience solid stools accompanied by a watery sensation, but I still occasionally have well-formed stools.
After moving back home for work earlier this year, I hoped my bowel issues would improve, but I haven't returned to the same consistency as before; the frequency of well-formed stools has decreased significantly.
However, I still have at least one bowel movement daily, sometimes two, and the color has always been normal.
I've never gone more than a day without a bowel movement.
Recently, my stools have mostly been short segments with irregular edges.
In the past month or two, I have frequently had solid stools accompanied by watery stools, but lately, they have mostly been irregular.
Could you please tell me what this situation might indicate? Am I at risk for colorectal cancer? I've seen a lot of news about it, and I'm a bit overweight, so I'm quite worried.

DoDo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/23

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Miss: If you are concerned, you can first conduct a stool test to check for occult blood, which can help initially rule out colorectal cancer.
Loose stools are mostly caused by diet (high in oil and dairy, or eating too quickly) or individual variations in gastrointestinal motility, leading to insufficient water absorption in the colon.
If necessary, you may also take medication to improve this condition.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian

Reply Date: 2015/11/23

More Info

Changing stool patterns can certainly be concerning, especially when you notice a significant shift from what you consider normal. In your case, the transition from consistently formed stools to more irregular shapes, including softer stools and those with "fringed" edges, raises valid questions about your gastrointestinal health. However, it's important to understand that changes in stool consistency and shape can be attributed to various factors, and not all changes indicate a serious condition like colon cancer.

Firstly, let's address your concern about colon cancer. While it is true that changes in bowel habits can be a symptom of colon cancer, they are not definitive indicators on their own. Colon cancer symptoms can vary widely and may include changes in stool consistency, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal discomfort, or a feeling that the bowel does not empty completely. However, many of these symptoms can also be associated with less serious conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), infections, or dietary changes.

At 29 years old, your risk of developing colon cancer is relatively low, especially if you do not have a family history of the disease or other risk factors such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The majority of colon cancer cases occur in individuals over the age of 50. However, it is essential to remain vigilant about any persistent changes in your body.

The fact that you have experienced a change in your diet, particularly with increased consumption of outside food, could significantly impact your bowel habits. Diets high in processed foods, low in fiber, and lacking in fruits and vegetables can lead to softer stools and irregular bowel movements. Additionally, stress and lifestyle changes, such as moving out for college and then back home, can also affect your gastrointestinal health.

Regarding your specific symptoms, the presence of stools that are sometimes solid and sometimes loose, along with the occasional "fringed" appearance, could suggest a few possibilities. It might indicate a dietary imbalance, such as insufficient fiber intake, or it could be a sign of gastrointestinal distress, possibly related to stress or anxiety. The fact that you are still having regular bowel movements (at least once a day) and that the color of your stools remains normal is a positive sign.

If you are experiencing any additional symptoms, such as abdominal pain, significant weight loss, or blood in your stools, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests such as a stool analysis, colonoscopy, or imaging studies to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while changes in stool patterns can be concerning, they are not always indicative of colon cancer, especially in younger individuals without risk factors. It is essential to consider dietary habits, stress levels, and overall health when assessing changes in bowel movements. If you have ongoing concerns, seeking medical advice is the best course of action to ensure your peace of mind and health.

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