Bowel movement frequency

FormerMember
FormerMember
  • 1 reply
  • 41 subscribers
  • 512 views

I was diagnosed with Stage 2 bowel cancer in October 2019.  Successful right hemicolectomy in November 2019.  Four cycles of chemotherapy January to April 2020.  Returned to work properly September 2020.  All post-treatment scans clear.

Over the past 2-3 months my daily bowel movements have changed.  I now routinely pass two bowel movements first thing in the morning (often within <20mins of each other).  Second movement is usually larger and looser than first.  There is some, albeit inconsistent, correlation between size and richness of food consumed the previous day and the size/ looseness of movements - but diet does not seem to influence the two movements routine.

Is this something to worry about or just the latest evolution in my replumbed tubing?

  • Dear SiHu_2019,

    I’m Lorna one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. Welcome back to the online community.

    I’m glad to hear that you have been recovering well following your treatment for bowel cancer.

    You will feel relieved that you have finished your treatment. However, it’s only natural to feel uncertain and find yourself worrying about the future, and any new symptoms you might experience.

    Side effects following treatment usually get better with time. However, some people may experience side effects months or even years after treatment. I’m sure your change in bowel habit can be easily explained. It might be helpful to talk things over with a dietician they will be able to offer you individual information and support with your diet.

    If you are worried at all, you should speak to your GP or get in touch with your Clinical Nurse Specialist (if you have one) they will be able to at least put your mind at rest.

    I hope you find this information helpful and you continue to get support on the Bowel Cancer Forum. Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you have any more questions,

    If you want to talk things through, you can contact us. We are open 7 days a week from 8am till 8pm. Our number is 0808 808 0000. 

    Best wishes

    Lorna

    Ref:LB/AMcG

     

     

    Lorna-Macmillan (Cancer Information Nurse Specialist)