Symptom 3: Unexplained Bowel Habits – A Change in Routine
Humans are creatures of habit, and so are our bowels. There’s comfort in routine, and our body thrives on it. When it comes to bowel movements, most of us have a fairly predictable schedule. It might be after your morning coffee or like clockwork in the evening. When this schedule suddenly goes haywire, and you find yourself experiencing bouts of constipation or unexpected diarrhea, it’s the body signaling potential trouble.
It’s easy to dismiss a single off-day as the result of something you ate or due to stress. But when these ‘off-days’ start becoming the new norm, lasting for more than a week, it’s a significant cause for concern. Such sustained changes in bowel habits can be a prominent symptom of colon polyps. Larger polyps, in particular, can obstruct the bowel’s pathway, leading to these disruptions.
Our body has its way of communicating, and often, it’s quite direct. An abrupt and sustained shift in bowel habits is a loud and clear message. Ignoring it or attributing it to external factors for extended periods can lead to complications. It’s crucial to differentiate between what’s a fleeting change and what’s potentially a symptom of a more significant issue.
One of the most underrated tools in understanding our health better is documentation. A simple diary noting down what you ate, when you experienced a change in bowel habits, and any accompanying symptoms can be a treasure trove of insights. This record not only helps in self-awareness but is invaluable during medical consultations, offering a clear timeline of events.
Changes in bowel habits, especially when persistent, should never be relegated to the ‘it’ll pass’ category. Being proactive, seeking medical advice, and ensuring regular screenings can not only offer peace of mind but can also lead to early detection and effective treatment of underlying issues, including colon polyps. (3)
