Bowel cancer symptoms: Do you have mucus encasing your faeces? It could be a sign

This type of cancer affects the bowel and so, understandably, it will affect what comes out of that passageway. The next time you do a number two, have a look – it could be revealing.

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust noted how a “change of bowel habits” is the “commonest symptom” of bowel cancer.

There may be “mucus in the stools” or “blood” – have you experienced this sign?

No matter how many times a person with bowel cancer visits the loo, they may feel as though they’ve not completely emptied their bowels.

Dehydration and constipation could be factors that cause mucus from the colon to coat stools.

Bacterial infections

Bacteria, such as Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, and Yersinia often cause food poisoning.

Signs of food poisoning include diarrhoea, cramping, vomiting, nausea and fever.

Anal fissures

An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of the lower rectum; this can be caused by persistent diarrhoea or tough stools.

This type of condition can clear up within a few weeks, with over-the-counter remedies available to reduce pain.

Bowel obstruction

Day-to-day symptoms of a bowel obstruction include cramps, gas, and bloating.

This should be reported to a doctor, who may suggest hospital treatment if the symptoms persist for a long time.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Mucus in stools is more prominent in people suffering from diarrhoea-prominent IBS.

If you’re suffering from mucus in your stools – and it’s been persistent – book an appointment with your GP.

You may be asked to produce a stool sample, which can sent off to a laboratory.

There, the faeces can be tested to detect parasites, bacteria and other illnesses.

Do discuss any other symptoms you may be experiencing while talking to your doctor.

source: express.co.uk