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 4 colon cancer
In stage 4, colon cancer has spread to other parts of the body. This is called metastatic or distant colon cancer. At this stage, the colon might be blocked or not function well. You may notice:
- Stools may be very thin or may look like pellets. Or you might not be able to pass stools at all.
- Blood in stools is common, and stools can be very dark.
- Severe stomach pain and swelling.
