While we all experience minor changes in bathroom habits now and then, and it is considered normal. But sometimes, these subtle changes can also be signs of something more serious– like cancer.
In some cases, subtle and persistent changes in bowel or urinary patterns of a person may be early warning signs of some types of cancers, especially those affecting the colon, bladder, kidneys, or prostate.
What makes these symptoms pass by is that they’re often mistaken for harmless digestive issues or age-related changes.
But catching these subtle signs early is crucial in detecting and treating the cancer. This also increases one’s survival chances, which is why it’s essential to listen to your body.
So, here we list some changes in bathroom habits that may be symptoms of cancer– and so one shouldn’t ignore them:
1. Blood in urine or stool
Visible blood in your urine or stool is an alarming sign that something is wrong—and it should not be taken lightly. Blood in the urine may indicate bladder or kidney cancer, while blood in the stool could be a sign of colorectal cancer. Even if the blood appears occasionally or it is only visible under a microscope, this should not be ignored and should be medically tested. Do consult your doctor for the same.
2. Frequent urination, especially at night
Have you noticed an increase in the frequency of urination— especially if you wake up multiple times at night recently? If so, then do not take this lightly, as this could be a sign of prostate or bladder cancer, especially in older men. While frequent urination, especially at night, is a common symptom of ageing or an enlarged prostate, it is important to rule out malignancy. If you are a man and have noticed this sign in the recent past, then do consult your doctor and get yourself tested.
3. Changes in stool shape or size
If your stool suddenly becomes narrow, pencil-thin, or ribbon-like and remains that way for several days, it might signal an obstruction in the colon– and possibly be due to colorectal cancer. While normal bowel movements vary, if it persists, then it should not be overlooked.
A study titled ‘The diagnostic value of a change in bowel habit for colorectal cancer’ (2019) published in BMJ Open Gastroenterology discusses symptom patterns including changes in stool shape as indicators for colorectal cancer. The study examined colorectal cancer referrals and found that changes in bowel habit— including stool shape— are significant symptoms, particularly in older patients, and can be indicators of lower gastrointestinal tract malignancy.
4. Chronic constipation or diarrhea
Suffering from constipation or diarrhea occasionally is normal, and it generally happens due to a change in one’s diet or infection. But if you notice persistent gut issues like constipation or diarrhea— especially if your routine has changed significantly recently—then it could be a warning sign. Chronic diarrhea may point to colorectal or pancreatic cancer, while prolonged constipation can be due to a blockage or tumour.
5. Painful urination or bowel movements
Have you been experiencing pain during urination or bowel movements? Do not take this lightly as it could be a subtle sign of bladder cancer or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Similarly, persistent painful bowel movements should not be ignored as it could also be a subtle and early sign of rectal or anal cancers, especially if you also notice bleeding or lumps. If you notice painful urination or bowel movements along with other signs like sudden weight loss or fatigue, then do consult your doctor and get your health checkup done at the earliest.
6. Unexplained weight loss with bathroom changes
Have you noticed a significant weight loss recently without even trying, and does this also include changes in your bowel or urinary habits? Well, then this may be subtle signs of cancers– like colon, stomach, or pancreatic cancer, and they shouldn’t be ignored. Why? According to the Mayo Clinic, ‘Cancer steals food from normal cells and deprives them of nutrients. This is often not affected by how many calories or what kind of food is eaten; it’s difficult to treat.
7. Feeling that you haven’t fully emptied your bowels
If you persistently feel that your bowel hasn’t emptied completely, even after you have gone to the bathroom, it is called tenesmus. This may be due to inflammation, but it can also be an early sign of rectal cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, this is due to a tumour blocking part of the bowel, making it feel like there’s always more to pass. ‘Bowel obstruction is much more common with advanced cancer. People who have had surgery or radiotherapy to the tummy (abdomen) are more at risk of developing a bowel obstruction,’ reads a report by Cancer Research UK on their website
