An estimated 26,400 Canadians will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2025, yet many people don't realize that colorectal cancer may not cause any signs or symptoms in its early stages.
Symptoms often only appear once a tumour has grown into surrounding tissues and organs. That's why it’s important to pay attention to changes in your body and know what symptoms to look for. Here are 3 key signs you should know.
1. Changes in your bathroom habits
Everyone’s bathroom habits are different, but sudden changes that won't go away could be asign that something isn't right.
This can include:
- diarrhea
- constipation
- stool (poop) that looks narrower than usual
- feeling like the rectum is not completely empty after a bowel movement
Other health conditions or changes to what you're eating can cause these symptoms, but it's important to speak with your doctor if they don't go away.
2. Blood in your stool
Blood in your stool (poop) is another common sign of colorectal cancer. The blood may be bright red or very dark in colour. You may see blood in the toilet bowl or on the toilet paper after wiping.
Having blood in your stool doesn't always mean you have cancer, but it's important not to self-diagnose and visit your doctor if the bleeding doesn't go away.
3. Pain or discomfort
Another symptom of colorectal cancer is pain or discomfort. This can be felt in different areas of the body including:
- the abdomen
- the back
- the buttocks or legs
- the rectum
You could also experience gas, stomach cramps and bloating. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit your doctor.
Explore the full list of colorectal cancer signs and symptoms.
Wylie's Story
Wylie Butler had very few symptoms before he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. He had experienced some occasional bleeding in his stool but he wasn't too concerned about it.
I was shocked to hear the doctor say, in no uncertain terms, ‘You have cancer, and it's got to come out.’
Wylie had bowel resection surgery to remove the cancer, but unfortunately it did not go well. He developed sepsis and lost nearly 40 pounds. His youngest son was terrified.
At the time that he saw me, I was very sick looking. He told me later that he thought that was the last time he was going to see me.
Wylie’s friends and family were a huge support during his cancer experience. After he was diagnosed, each of his 5 siblings immediately got tested to see if colorectal cancer was a genetic trait. Wylie is especially grateful for the support of his band OverPass. One bandmate brought him a smoothie every day after his second surgery.
Today, Wylie is cancer-free and believes in living his life to the fullest. He strives to make the most of each moment, saying that "there is life after cancer".
I know that's kind of a cliche, but there is life after cancer, and it's a good one.
Make a difference today
March is colorectal cancer awareness month. For people with colorectal cancer and their families, bold, new cancer research and compassionate support programs provide hope and comfort when it’s needed most. But we can’t do it without you.
Donate today and join a caring community dedicated to advancing life-saving research and providing ongoing support for people facing cancer.