Following Shawn Michael’s diagnosis, the Mirror explores bowel cancer symptoms, which the NHS says include constipation and frequently feeling tired for no reason
Bowel cancer symptoms that you need to be aware of
Bowel cancer symptoms include simple constipation, the NHS states on its website.
The Mirror reminds readers of the everyday sign following the diagnosis of 48-year-old dad Shawn Michael, who wants to raise awareness after suffering abdominal pain. The cancer has spread to several organs but he is still hopeful of a “fighting chance” with chemotherapy.
Some bowel cancer symptoms are very common and can be caused by other conditions. Having the symptoms does not definitely mean you have bowel cancer, but it’s important to get checked by a GP, especially if these symptoms have persisted for three weeks or more.
More than 16,000 people died of the cancer in the UK between 2017 and 2019, statsistics show. However, Cancer Research UK says 54 per cent of bowel cancer cases are avoidable.
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When Mr Michael, from Springfield, Missouri, had difficulty passing stools, which he thought was just constipation, he sought an over-the-counter remedy. When this didn’t work, he then went to a medical centre where he was given something a lot stronger.
But the father was eventually diagnosed with bowel cancer, which between 2017 and 2019 was the fourth most common cancer in the UK, accounting for 11% of all new cancer cases.
Constipation is a common symptom. Nearly 30 per cent of bowel cancer cases in the UK are caused by eating too little fibre, according to Cancer Research UK.
READ MORE: ‘I’m a doctor – here are 4 symptoms you should tell your GP about as you may have cancer’
Bowel cancer symptoms
Symptoms of bowel cancer may include:
- changes in your poo, such as having softer poo, diarrhoea or constipation that is not usual for you
- needing to poo more or less often than usual for you
- blood in your poo, which may look red or black
- bleeding from your bottom
- often feeling like you need to poo, even if you’ve just been to the toilet
- losing weight without trying
- feeling very tired for no reason
This list is according to the NHS, which says anyone diagnosed with the cancer is offered a combination of treatments including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted medicines. Surgery can remove cancer from the bowel. Part or all of the bowel around the cancer may also need to be removed. To help your recovery, you may need a colostomy or ileostomy, which may be temporary or permanent.
Speaking about his journey, Mr Michael, who is married, said: “We are hoping to kill off with chemo. Our plan currently is to do three months of chemo.” He added he wants to help others who may also be experiencing similar symptoms, or have had a diagnosis already.
