Symptom 4: Change in Stool Appearance
Discussing bowel movements might not be a topic for the dinner table, but it’s undeniably an insight into one’s health. The appearance, consistency, and frequency of our stools can narrate a detailed story about our digestive health. Any significant deviation from the norm, especially if sustained, is a tale worth listening to.
Black, tarry stools. They aren’t a result of that beet salad you ate. This alarming change is often a direct implication of internal bleeding. Tumors in the duodenum, when they bleed, lead to the ingestion of this blood. As it passes through the digestive tract, it turns the stool into a dark, tarry consistency.
Fresh blood in the stool is another concerning sign. It’s vivid, unmistakable, and warrants immediate attention. However, it’s essential to approach this symptom with a balanced perspective. While it could indicate irritation or bleeding from a tumor, other benign conditions might also be the culprits. (4)
