Problematic Bowel Movement
A good thing to keep in mind is that our bodies love routine. You should experience the same bowel movement at 70 as you did at 20. Once you’re set in your patterns, it really shouldn’t change.
You should see a specialist if you notice anything different. Changes can mean diarrhea, constipation that won’t go away, or even going from having one bowel movement a day to four times a day.
Also, look out for pencil- or pen-like stools. This can indicate a tumor squeezing or partially blocking the colon, causing stool to become thinner than usual.
Tumors or polyps that are associated with colon cancer can also change bowel movements’ consistency, shape, or frequency.
Are You Having Trouble Swallowing?
If you’re having trouble swallowing occasionally, there’s nothing to worry about. But when it begins to happen often, especially along with vomiting or weight loss, your doctor might want to check you for throat or stomach cancer.
