Colon cancer (also known as colorectal cancer) is the third most prevalent type of cancer for both men and women in the United States. It is also currently the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Americans today. Catching colon cancer in its earliest stages is the key to successful treatment. These top ten signs may indicate that colorectal cancer is present, though, they are also symptomatic of many less serious health problems. If you aren’t sure, check with your doctor.
Unusual Bowel Movements
A change in bowel movements is one of the earliest indicators of colon cancer. This may include diarrhea, constipation, a change in stool consistency, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms. Unusual bowel behavior that persists should always be checked out by a doctor, especially when accompanied by other symptoms listed below.
Weight Loss
Unexpected weight loss or loss of appetite are both indicators of an unhealthy bowel. Colon cancer may cause these symptoms if a cancerous growth has led to a build-up of waste matter in the bowel. A compacted bowel may result in a feeling of persistent “fullness” and a slower metabolism, leading to reduced appetite.
Weakness or Fatigue
Colorectal cancer can cause intestinal bleeds that may not be obvious in the patient’s stool. This may result in dizziness, weakness, or moderate to severe fatigue. Colon cancer sufferers may also feel persistently cold or develop pale skin as a result of this blood loss.
Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Persistent bloating, stomach cramps, nausea, and indigestion can all be signs that a tumor is blocking the normal movement of waste products through the colon. These symptoms are not usually cause for concern unless they become severe or are out of the ordinary.
Abdominal Pain
Colorectal cancer can result in abdominal pain if a polyp or tumor leads to a tear in the intestinal wall. In advanced colon cancer cases, persistent abdominal pain can also be caused by other organs that have been impacted by tumor growth.
Bloody Stool
Most instances of bright red blood in the stool are caused by hemorrhoids. Darker blood in the stool can be a symptom of a colon cancer, as it indicates a bleed further up the intestinal tract. All instances of bloody stool should be checked out by a doctor at the earliest opportunity.
Jaundice
Late stage colon cancer can lead to a yellowing of the skin and eyes known as jaundice. This occurs when the cancer has spread to the liver and obstructed the bile ducts, causing excess bile to enter the bloodstream.
Vomiting
Nausea can sometimes progress to vomiting in patients with colon cancer if tumors in the colon have led to a blockage of waste in the digestive tract. This is likely to be inconsistent when it occurs and is usually only cause for concern when accompanied by other key colon cancer symptoms.
Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia occurs when insufficient iron is absorbed through the intestinal wall. This can be a sign of poor diet, or an indicator that a cancerous growth is blocking iron uptake. When colon cancer occurs on the right side of the bowel, anemia may be the first and only early warning sign that something is amiss.
Bowel Urgency
A build-up of pressure caused by colon cancer tumors can sometimes result in the overwhelming feeling of needing to move one’s bowels. This feeling is usually persistent and does not result in a successful, normal bowel movement. Sufferers may be unable to move their bowels fully, or at all.
When to Speak To Your Doctor
The likelihood of colorectal cancer increases proportionately with the number of symptoms a patient experiences. If you have suffered with any of the symptoms above or are concerned about your colon cancer risk, make an appointment to talk to your doctor as soon as possible.