Seeing your GP when you have symptoms of bowel cancer

You should see your doctor if you notice a change that isn't normal for you. Or if you have any of the possible signs and symptoms of cancer. 

Even if you're worried about what the symptom might be, don't delay seeing them. If you're finding it difficult to get an appointment you should keep trying. Your worry is unlikely to go away if you don’t see someone about it. 

The symptom might not be due to cancer. But if it is, the earlier it's picked up the higher the chance of successful treatment. You won't be wasting your doctor's time. 

Try not to be embarrassed. What you tell your GP is confidential. Doctors are used to discussing intimate problems and will try to put you at ease.

Tests your GP might do

Blood test

Your GP might arrange for you to have blood tests. You usually have these at your GP practice or your local hospital.

Testing for blood in your poo

Your GP might arrange a test that looks for tiny traces of blood in a sample of your poo. This is a test called FIT (faecal immunochemical test). 

Most people with a normal FIT test result can be reassured about their bowel symptoms. But some people might have other symptoms meaning they need more tests.

Testing for inflammation in the bowel 

Your GP may also ask you for another sample of poo to check for inflammation in the bowel. This test is called faecal calprotectin.

Find out more about tests for bowel cancer

Referral to a specialist

Depending on the results of your examination and any tests, your doctor might:

• be able to reassure you

• refer you to the hospital to see a specialist

If your GP suspects you have bowel cancer, they will refer you to a doctor who specialises in bowel (colorectal) conditions.

Find out what happens when you see a specialist