It's important to be aware of any potential symptoms and signs of bowel problems. The most common indications of bowel issues include: Constant or recurring pain or cramping - Consistent discomfort in the abdomen is one of the most common indications of bowel issues. Constipation - Bowel issues may be indicated by difficulty passing stools or infrequent bowel movements. Diarrhea - Consistent loose stools or diarrhea may point to a digestive system issue. Gas and bloating - Bowel conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can result in excessive gas and bloating. Changes in bowel habits - Bowel problems may be indicated by changes in the frequency, consistency, or color of bowel movements. Rectal bleeding - Blood in the stool or on the toilet paper may indicate bowel issues, such as colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).