Bowel cancer can be difficult to recognize in its early stages, particularly when the warning signs resemble everyday digestive problems. Knowing which symptoms to look out for could make a significant difference.Some people may initially mistake the symptoms for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea and constipation. In other cases, the signs may not seem serious enough to warrant medical attention.However, one doctor is urging people to pay attention to a particular change in their bathroom habits that could indicate something more serious.

Dr. Asiya Maula, a general practitioner at The Health Suite, told the Daily Mail that repeatedly feeling the need to have a bowel movement immediately after using the bathroom is a symptom worth taking seriously.She described the sensation as: “The sensation of needing to open your bowels even after you have just been to the toilet.”The symptom is known as ‘incomplete bowel emptying.’“A growth in the bowel or rectum can sometimes cause a feeling of pressure or irritation, or partially obstruct the passage of stool, which can leave someone feeling as though they still need to go even after they have emptied their bowels.”Experiencing this symptom does not automatically mean someone has bowel cancer. However, Dr. Maula’s warning highlights why people should not ignore persistent changes in their usual bowel habits, particularly when they occur alongside other concerning symptoms.