Articles
Colon cancer stool: What to look for and how to test at home
Content
Why does colon cancer affect stool appearance?
What signs should you look for in your stool?
How stools may change with different stages of colon cancer
Stage 0 and stage 1 colon cancer
Stage 2 colon cancer
Stage 3 colon cancer
Stage 4 colon cancer
Other conditions that can look like colon cancer
When should you see a doctor?
What are your screening options?
At-home stool tests
Why does colon cancer affect stool appearance?
What signs should you look for in your stool?
How stools may change with different stages of colon cancer
Stage 0 and stage 1 colon cancer
Stage 2 colon cancer
Stage 3 colon cancer
Stage 4 colon cancer
Other conditions that can look like colon cancer
When should you see a doctor?
What are your screening options?
At-home stool tests
Stage 3 colon cancer
In stage 3, the colon cancer has grown bigger and has spread into nearby lymph nodes. You may notice:
- Pencil-thin stools happen more often.
- Diarrhea or constipation won't go away.
- More blood and mucus in the stools.
