How to Monitor Your Poop for Early Signs of Colorectal Cancer?
Poop can be a valuable warning system for detecting issues inside the body, including colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer occurs when cancer cells grow out of control in the colon or rectum, forming a cluster of cells called a polyp. These polyps can cause changes in the frequency or shape of your poop, and can also bleed into the bowel. By monitoring your poop, you may be able to identify early signs of colorectal cancer.
Step 1: Know what to look for
If you have colorectal cancer on the right side of the colon, the blood in your poop may not look red when it reaches the toilet because it is older blood. Instead, it may look like black tar mixed with the poop. If the cancer is further down the colon or in the rectum, the blood will be fresher and may be smeared along the stool or mixed with the stool and still red. If the cancer is in the rectum, you may see red blood going directly into the toilet before or after the poop, rather than mixed in with the stool.
Step 2: Know when to get screened
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk for colorectal cancer begin screening at age 50. If you have a family history of the disease, it may be necessary to begin screening at an earlier age. It is important to talk to your doctor about the appropriate screening schedule for you.
Step 3: Know what to do if you spot blood in your poop
Visible blood in your stool, hidden blood detected through a screening test, or changes in your bowel habits can be caused by a variety of health issues. Regardless of the cause, it is important to get it checked out by a doctor.
Conclusion
Monitoring your poop can be an important step in identifying early signs of colorectal cancer. If you see blood in your poop or experience changes in your bowel habits, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional. By staying informed and taking action, you may be able to catch colorectal cancer in its early stages and improve your chances of successful treatment.
FAQs:
What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon and rectum. It occurs when cancer cells grow out of control in these organs and form a cluster of cells called a polyp.
How can I monitor my poop for early signs of colorectal cancer?
To monitor your poop for early signs of colorectal cancer, you should be aware of what to look for. If you see blood in your poop, or if the stool is black and tar-like, it could be a sign of colorectal cancer. You should also be on the lookout for changes in your bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea.
When should I get screened for colorectal cancer?
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk for colorectal cancer begin screening at age 50. If you have a family history of the disease, you may need to begin screening at an earlier age. It is important to talk to your doctor about the appropriate screening schedule for you.
What should I do if I see blood in my poop or experience changes in my bowel habits?
If you see blood in your poop or experience changes in your bowel habits, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional. These symptoms could be caused by a variety of health issues, but it is important to get them checked out to rule out colorectal cancer or other serious conditions.
