5. Change in Bowel Habits: When Routine Takes a Twist
If you’ve noticed a sudden change in how often you go, or the consistency of what you pass, don’t just brush it off. A change in bowel habits could be indicative of colorectal cancer. Unlike other digestive disorders where symptoms come and go, the change here is consistent. You’ll find yourself either plagued by relentless constipation or, conversely, unusually frequent bouts of diarrhea. It’s as if your system can’t make up its mind, and this inconsistency is often due to a tumor altering the intestinal landscape.
Now, it’s interesting to delve into why exactly this change occurs. The tumor’s size and location can dictate the nature of this symptom. A tumor located closer to the anus is likely to cause constipation by obstructing the passage. On the other hand, a tumor further up the colon may cause diarrhea by triggering an increase in bowel movements. So, even though the symptom is the same—changed bowel habits—the underlying mechanics can be vastly different.
There’s also a psychological angle to this symptom. The worry and anxiety that come with inconsistent bowel habits can lead to a vicious cycle. Stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, which in turn increases stress. This cyclical relationship between the mind and gut is an often-overlooked facet of colorectal cancer and merits attention in its own right.
And then there’s the issue of false positives. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) often presents with similar symptoms, leading many to mistakenly believe they’re dealing with a less serious condition. It’s one of the reasons why colorectal cancer is often diagnosed late, as people self-diagnose or opt for over-the-counter medications instead of seeking a definitive diagnosis. (5)
