4. Changes in Bowel Habits: A Disrupted Routine
Everyone’s bowel habits vary, but we all have a somewhat predictable routine. It’s when this routine experiences frequent, prolonged disruptions that it might signal something’s amiss. In the context of stage 4 colorectal cancer, such disruptions can’t be dismissed.
Initially, these changes might seem harmless. A few bouts of diarrhea followed by constipation might feel like reactions to something you ate. But if these changes persist, it’s cause for concern. The tumor’s location and size in the colorectal region can directly influence bowel movements, leading to these irregularities.
Moreover, these disruptions aren’t merely inconvenient; they can be distressing. Patients often describe feelings of bloatedness, an inability to empty their bowels fully, or the opposite—a sense of urgency, often without warning. These symptoms can dramatically affect a person’s quality of life, from avoiding social outings to experiencing anxiety about the nearest restroom. (4)
