Symptom 6: Feeling that Bowel Doesn’t Empty Completely
Imagine finishing a meal and still feeling hungry. That lingering sense of unfulfillment can be maddening. The same goes for the sensation that, despite having a bowel movement, the rectum hasn’t emptied entirely. This feeling, often described as tenesmus, is not just bothersome but can be an early warning sign of colorectal cancer.
A tumor in the rectum or lower parts of the colon can obstruct the natural flow of stool. Even if a portion of stool passes, the tumor’s presence may prevent complete evacuation. This obstruction creates that lingering sensation of incompleteness. Moreover, the tumor can irritate the rectal walls, intensifying the feeling of residual matter.
It isn’t just about the sensation; there’s often an associated discomfort. There might be straining, a need to exert extra pressure, and sometimes even pain. This discomfort, especially if it becomes a daily ordeal, can severely affect one’s quality of life, turning a simple bodily function into a challenging task.(6)
