So, what should you watch for?
1. Your Bowel Habits Have Changed
One of the warning signs of colorectal cancer is a change in normal bowel habits.
This can include:
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New or persistent constipation
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Diarrhea that doesn’t go away
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Alternating between constipation and diarrhea
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Stools becoming noticeably narrower
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A change in how often you have bowel movements
Everyone experiences occasional digestive changes. A different diet, travel, stress, illness, or medication can temporarily affect bowel movements.
The concern is when a change is new, persistent, unusual for you, or accompanied by other symptoms.
The American Cancer Society lists changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few days among the possible symptoms of colorectal cancer. ([Cancer.org][1])
If your digestion suddenly seems different and doesn’t return to normal, talk with a healthcare professional about what might be causing it.
2. You See Blood in Your Stool
Blood in or on the stool is another symptom that should not automatically be dismissed.
