Man's Bowel Cancer Diagnosis Triggered by Persistent Constipation Symptom
A man who was diagnosed with bowel cancer has detailed the specific symptom that prompted him to seek medical attention, explaining that he realised something was seriously wrong when he experienced persistent constipation accompanied by intense stomach cramps. Bowel cancer, which includes cancers of the colon and rectum, is among the most prevalent cancers in the United Kingdom, and early detection is crucial for improving treatment outcomes.
Ram Danielle's Journey to Diagnosis
Ram Danielle, from the United States, was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer following multiple hospital visits, all initiated by a single alarming symptom. In a TikTok video, Ram highlighted that colon cancer has become the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for individuals under 50 in the US, and it remains a common cancer globally, including in the UK. He shared his personal experience to raise awareness and encourage others to recognise when to seek medical checks.
Ram's path to diagnosis began when he developed severe stomach cramps due to being constipated for several days. He had not had a bowel movement for approximately four days, which was unusual for his typically regular habits, prompting concern. The pain became so intense that he asked his parents to drive him to the Accident and Emergency department.
Hospital Visits and Medical Procedures
After a four-hour wait in A&E, doctors conducted blood tests and an X-ray, revealing a significant buildup of stool in his bowels. He was prescribed laxatives and sent home, but he remained unable to pass stool. Upon returning to the hospital, a colonoscopy was ordered, which identified a blockage in part of his colon. Samples were taken for testing, and he underwent surgery to have a stoma bag fitted because he still could not use the toilet.
Upon waking from surgery, Ram received the devastating news: doctors had discovered a 5cm tumour in his colon. Fortunately, they were able to remove the tumour during the procedure, which also cleared the blockage. Ram explained, "Now, they've removed about 75% of my colon, and they also removed 39 lymph nodes. [At this point], it's already been confirmed that this is cancer, but I still have to wait for the pathology results to see which stage it is."
Recovery and Reflection
Ram spent 13 days in the hospital recovering, describing it as the most intense experience of his life. "It literally changed my life overnight. All of a sudden, I couldn't work, I couldn't stand up, I couldn't eat, I couldn't do anything," he said. About four days later, he learned it was stage three colon cancer. Despite the hardship, Ram expressed gratitude for his constipation, as without it, he might have remained unaware of the cancer.
Symptoms of Bowel Cancer and When to Seek Help
According to the NHS, symptoms of bowel cancer can include:
- Changes in bowel habits, such as softer stool, diarrhoea, or unusual constipation
- Needing to go to the toilet more or less frequently than normal
- Blood in the stool, which may appear red or black
- Bleeding from the bottom
- Persistent feeling of needing to defecate even after going
- Abdominal pain or a lump in the tummy
- Bloating, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or shortness of breath
If you experience symptoms of bowel cancer for three weeks or more, you should consult a GP. The NHS advises not to feel embarrassed discussing bowel habits, as healthcare professionals are accustomed to such conversations. In emergencies, such as black or dark red stool, bloody diarrhoea, non-stop bleeding from the bottom, or significant blood loss, seek immediate medical attention by calling 111, going to A&E, or dialling 999. For further information, visit the NHS website.
