Common Bowel Cancer Symptoms Often Mistaken for IBS, Doctor Warns

A leading doctor has issued a warning about certain bowel cancer symptoms that are frequently confused with less serious digestive conditions, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Most of us have experienced digestive discomfort at some point—whether it's being backed up for days, running to the bathroom with sudden diarrhea, or feeling painfully bloated. While these symptoms are often attributed to something like IBS, medical experts stress the importance of not jumping to conclusions.

According to the American College of Gastroenterology, between 10 and 15 percent of Americans suffer from IBS—a chronic condition that affects the digestive system. Symptoms commonly include stomach cramps, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. They tend to come and go, often flaring up for days, weeks, or even months.

Despite its uncomfortable nature, IBS is not life-threatening and doesn’t increase your risk of developing more serious diseases like bowel cancer. However, one UK-based physician is warning patients not to automatically assume IBS is to blame when certain symptoms arise.

Serious Symptoms Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Dr. Rupa Parmar, a general practitioner and Medical Director at Midland Health, has highlighted some warning signs that, while similar to IBS, could point to something far more serious—such as bowel cancer.

While the two conditions may share a number of overlapping symptoms, including abdominal cramps, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, Dr. Parmar emphasizes that there are several red flags that shouldn’t be ignored.

"IBS is a common digestive disorder, but it should never be used as a catch-all diagnosis—especially if your symptoms are new, getting worse, or accompanied by other concerning signs," she explains.

Key Differences to Watch For

Here are some critical symptoms that might help you distinguish between IBS and bowel cancer:

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1. Changes in Stool Appearance

IBS may cause stools to appear looser or include a whitish mucus, but blood in the stool is not a symptom of IBS. Dr. Parmar warns that blood—especially if it’s dark red, black, or tar-like—could be a sign of bowel cancer and should always be investigated.

“Very narrow or pencil-thin stools are another sign to look out for,” she adds, “as they could suggest a blockage caused by a tumor.”

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2. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unlike IBS, bowel cancer can cause noticeable weight loss without any change in diet or activity level.

“This happens because the body may not absorb nutrients properly due to cancer cells interfering with normal digestion,” Dr. Parmar says. “As a result, people may burn calories faster without realizing it.”

Weight loss that occurs suddenly or without trying should always be checked out by a medical professional.

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3. Rectal Bleeding

Bleeding from the rectum or seeing blood when you wipe is not linked to IBS. If it occurs—especially if it's persistent or accompanied by pain—this can be an early warning sign of bowel cancer.

“Even a small amount of bleeding that happens regularly over a few weeks warrants a doctor’s visit,” Dr. Parmar advises. “It might not be cancer, but early testing is key.”

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4. Fatigue or Weakness

Feeling unusually tired or weak? It could be more than just everyday stress.

According to Dr. Parmar, “Fatigue may result from internal bleeding or anemia caused by a lack of red blood cells. In some cases, the cancer itself uses a significant amount of the body’s energy, leaving you constantly drained.”

Unlike IBS, which doesn’t typically affect energy levels in such a direct way, this kind of fatigue can be persistent and unexplained.

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5. Risk Factors That Raise Concern

While IBS can affect people of all ages, bowel cancer is more common in those over 50. Other risk factors include:

• Smoking

• Excessive alcohol intake

• Obesity

• A diet high in fat and low in fiber

• A family history of bowel cancer

Dr. Parmar stresses that anyone with these risk factors should be particularly cautious and proactive about any changes in their digestive health.

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Early Detection Is Crucial

Dr. Parmar concludes: “It’s always better to be cautious. If you're experiencing persistent or new symptoms that concern you—even if they seem like typical IBS signs—see your GP and request a proper evaluation.”

“Catching bowel cancer early dramatically increases treatment success. Don’t wait—get checked.”