I used to think only major symptoms were serious, but changes in poop can sometimes be early signs of colon cancer. These include blood in the stool, changes in consistency, or shifts in how often you go to the bathroom.

These symptoms don’t always mean cancer, since other digestive conditions can cause similar issues. Still, it’s important to know what to watch for.

Early signs may include narrow or “pencil-like” stools, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, fatigue, or a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying.

As the disease progresses, symptoms can become more noticeable. Constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and alternating bowel habits may appear due to partial blockages.

Blood in the stool can vary in color depending on where the tumor is located in the colon.

In later stages, symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and more severe blockages. Some people may also develop anemia from internal bleeding.

Advanced colon cancer can spread to other organs and cause additional complications, sometimes with fewer obvious bowel symptoms.

The key takeaway is that persistent changes in bowel habits should not be ignored. While not always serious, they are worth discussing with a healthcare professional, especially if they continue over time.