Cancer is a topic that nobody likes to talk about, but it is essential to be aware of the warning signs. Colon cancer is the third leading cause of deaths related to cancer in the United States, and early detection is key to survival. It is important to be familiar with the early warning signs of colon cancer so that you can catch it early and get treatment:
1. Diarrhea or constipation
When it comes to your digestive system, changes are never a good sign. If you experience persistent diarrhea or constipation, it could be a sign of colon cancer. These changes in bowel habits could be the result of a tumor blockage in the colon. They could also cause inflammation in the colon. In most cases, these changes are not cancerous, but it is always best to have a doctor check them out. These changes may be the only symptom during the early stages of colon cancer.
2. Rectal bleeding
Rectal bleeding occurs when the lining of the rectum becomes damaged. The bleeding is usually a result of the tumor bleeding as it grows. The bleeding is usually not painful. However, if the cancer is more advanced, the bleeding may be heavier. However, the bleeding can be a symptom of other non-cancerous conditions, such as hemorrhoids or a bowel disease.
3. Blood in your stool
This can be either fresh or old blood that has turned your stool dark. If it is fresh blood, it will be bright red. If it is old blood, it will be a darker color. Blood appearing in your stool can also make it appear black and tarry. This can be a sign that your upper digestive tract is bleeding. Blood appearing in your stool is not normal and warrants a doctor’s trip. While it could result from something minor, such as hemorrhoids, it could also be a sign of colon cancer. To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor will likely order a colonoscopy. This procedure involves insertion of a tiny camera into the rectum to get a better look at the colon.
4. Abdominal pain
While pain in the abdomen can result from several different conditions, you should note that it can also symbolize colon cancer. The pain is usually the result of a tumor growing and blocking the colon. The main difference between cancer-related pain in the abdomen and other causes of abdominal pain is that the pain associated with colon cancer is usually constant and worsens over time.
5. Feeling like the bowel won’t empty
It could symbolize colon cancer if you feel that your bowel doesn’t empty after you’ve had a bowel movement. The main reason you feel like your bowel doesn’t empty is the cancerous tumor blocking the stool from passing. However, this feeling could also result from other conditions, such as diverticular disease. Sometimes, this feeling could also be accompanied by pain in the abdomen and bloating.
While these are the most common symptoms of colon cancer, you should remember that they can also result from other non-cancerous conditions. You should always visit a doctor for a proper diagnosis. If you suspect you might have colon cancer, the good news is that it is a highly treatable form of cancer. With early detection, the survival rate is very high.
