What Are the Symptoms of Bowel Cancer?

Bowel cancer symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people have clear symptoms, while others may have few or no symptoms at first. Symptoms can also be caused by many non-cancer conditions, but persistent or unexplained changes should be checked by a doctor.

This article is for general information only. If you have symptoms or are worried about your health, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

Blood in the Stool

Blood in the stool or bleeding from the rectum can be a symptom of bowel cancer, but it can also be caused by haemorrhoids, fissures or other bowel conditions. Any unexplained bleeding should be discussed with a doctor.

Change in Bowel Habits

A persistent change in bowel habits may include diarrhoea, constipation, narrower stools or needing to open the bowels more or less often than usual.

American Cancer Society lists blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, weight loss and feeling very tired among possible colorectal cancer symptoms. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Abdominal Pain or Bloating

Ongoing abdominal pain, cramps, bloating or discomfort may need medical assessment, especially if it is new, persistent or comes with other symptoms.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without trying can be a warning sign of many health problems, including cancer. It should be checked by a doctor.

Tiredness or Anaemia

Ongoing tiredness may happen if there is hidden bleeding that causes iron-deficiency anaemia. Blood tests may help identify anaemia.

For related testing information, read our Blood Tests for Bowel Cancer article.

When to Seek Medical Advice

See a doctor if symptoms are persistent, unexplained or unusual for you. Do not wait for routine screening if you already have symptoms.

For next steps, read our General Tests and Physical Examination for Bowel Cancer guide.

Final Thoughts

Bowel cancer symptoms can be similar to other conditions, but they should not be ignored. Early medical advice can help identify the cause and decide whether further tests are needed.