Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a malignancy that begins in the large intestine. It typically starts as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called polyps that over time can develop into cancers. Early detection is critical, as it significantly increases the chances for successful treatment. One of the challenges with colon cancer is that it manifests subtly, with symptoms often mistaken for less severe gastrointestinal issues. This article aims to shed light on five of the most common signs of colon cancer.
Changes in Bowel Habits
One of the earliest and most common signs of colon cancer is a change in bowel habits. This may include diarrhea, constipation, or changes in the consistency of the stool that last more than a couple of weeks. These ongoing changes can be a sign of colon cancer, as the cancer's growth can cause blockages or inflammation in the digestive tract.
Blood in Stool or Rectal Bleeding
Another common sign of colon cancer is the presence of blood in the stool. The blood may appear bright red or very dark. Sometimes, the blood can be so subtle that it's not visible to the naked eye and can only be detected through a fecal occult blood test. Regardless, any instance of blood in the stool should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
Persistent Abdominal Discomfort
Abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain that persists, can be a sign of colon cancer. While these symptoms can be caused by a variety of different gastrointestinal issues, persistent discomfort that doesn't go away could be a sign of a tumor causing obstruction or inflammation in the colon.
Weakness or Fatigue
Unexplained fatigue or weakness can also be a sign of colon cancer. This happens when the cancer causes internal bleeding, leading to anemia (a lack of red blood cells), which in turn can cause fatigue.
Unexplained Weight Loss
One of the more general symptoms of colon cancer, and indeed many kinds of cancer, is unexplained weight loss. This can occur even when a person's diet or exercise habits haven't changed. It is caused by the cancer cells consuming the body's energy and the immune system working hard to fight off the disease.