Are Your Number 2's Normal?
When you should actually see a doctor (Photo: Shutterstock)
No need to bust out a magnifying glass: The key to spotting colon trouble is “knowing your bowel habits,” says Felice Schnoll-Sussman, M.D. Internalize this symptom primer, and call your doctor if anything new and unusual sticks around for several weeks.
Probably OK
Bright-red blood in the toilet bowl or on your TP post-pooping. It could indicate a small anal tear or a typically harmless hemorrhoid.
Probably Not
Darker blood (think maroon or almost black) that’s intertwined with stool might signal colon bleeding.
Probably OK
A stretch—even a week or two—of constipation or straining. Yes, we mean pushing like a pro with little to show for it. Hint: You might be dehydrated.
Probably Not
Out-of-nowhere or prolonged constipation (longer than a month), together with narrow or pencil-like stools, which could mean a roadblock in the colon.
Probably OK
Cramping or bloating that makes it hard to button your jeans.
Probably Not
Daily pain fierce enough to interrupt your sleep or force you to change your routine. Whether it’s cancer-caused or not, see your M.D., stat.
For more information on stomach issues, pick up the April 2015 issue of Women’s Health, on newsstands now.
More from Women’s Health:
10 Cancer Symptoms Most People Ignore
What to Eat to Reduce Your Risk of Colon Cancer
4 Women Share What It’s Like to Have Colon Cancer
Do You Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome—Or Just a Sensitive Stomach?
