Bowel Cancer Symptoms and Diagnosis

The development of bowel cancer may take between five to ten years, unfortunately early on there may be no symptoms.

As the cancer develops, symptoms may include:

Blood in your poo/bleeding from the back passage (anus)
Changes to your usual bowel habits (eg unusual episodes of constipation or diarrhoea, increased bowel movements)
Increased mucus in your poo
Tummy/rectal pain, constipation, inability to pass wind and bloating
A lump which may be felt in your rectum or your tummy
Weight loss
Sickness
Tiredness and breathlessness

Our staff at Salisbury District Hospital have long been well regarded for the quality of care and treatment they provide for our patients and for their innovation, commitment and professionalism. This has been recognised in a wide range of achievements and it is reflected in our award of NHS Foundation Trust status. This is afforded to hospitals that provide the highest standards of care.