Bowel cancer remains one of the most prevalent forms of cancer, accounting for around 11% of all new cancer cases diagnosed each year. Despite its prevalence, many young people like Renee Gosney and Ellie Wilcock have found themselves dismissed when showing symptoms commonly associated with bowel issues—only to discover they had cancer.
Symptoms like gut pain, vomiting, bloody noses, and bloated feelings are often brushed aside by medical professionals, leaving patients feeling desperate. However, experts say these signs should be taken seriously, especially if they persist or worsen over time.
According to the NHS, tummy pain, abdominal lumps, and bloated feelings are red flags for bowel cancer. Fatigue, changes in bowel habits, and loss of appetite can also be indicative of the disease. Ellie Wilcock, who is grappling with stage four bowel cancer, recently shared her experience on social media.
Ellie’s symptoms began with intense pain localized on the left side of her abdomen and pelvis, which she initially thought was a urinary infection. However, comprehensive testing revealed no underlying issues. She also experienced fatigue, changes in bowel habits, and a loss of appetite. These symptoms, along with others like shifting stools or the presence of blood, are notable signs of potential bowel cancer.
Renee Gosney’s experience is similar. She began experiencing gut pain, vomiting, daily bloody noses, and bloated feelings, which she was initially dismissed by her doctor despite her efforts to seek medical help. It wasn’t until months later that she received the shocking news that she had stage three bowel cancer.
Both women stress the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking medical attention when experiencing unusual or persistent discomfort. Early intervention can save lives, and awareness and education about bowel cancer and its less talked-about symptoms remain pivotal in preventing misdiagnosis and saving lives.
Source: https://evrimagaci.org/tpg/two-women-share-warning-signs-of-bowel-cancer-80875