When it comes to digestive health, your body sometimes communicates through subtle signs—one of the most important being your stool. Doctors are now raising awareness about specific changes in bowel movements that may indicate serious underlying conditions, including cancer.
The Red Flag You Shouldn’t Ignore
Medical experts emphasize that blood in the stool, especially if it is dark red or black, is a highly concerning symptom. While not every case indicates cancer, it can signal problems ranging from hemorrhoids to gastrointestinal bleeding, or more seriously, colorectal cancer. Dr. Emily Hartwell, a gastroenterologist, explains:
“Visible changes in stool color, consistency, or frequency can be early indicators of something serious. Dark red or black stool should never be ignored, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms like unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, or fatigue.”
What Causes These Changes?
The color of stool is influenced by what you eat, medications, and, crucially, bleeding within the digestive tract. Some possible causes of concerning stool include:
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Colorectal cancer: Blood in the stool can occur if a tumor is bleeding.
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Gastrointestinal bleeding: Conditions like ulcers or gastritis may result in dark, tarry stools.
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Hemorrhoids or anal fissures: Usually result in bright red blood, often noticed on toilet paper or on the surface of the stool.
Symptoms That Should Prompt Immediate Medical Attention
It’s not just the color—doctors advise watching for other warning signs, including:
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