Knowing the colon cancer signs and symptoms is important because it allows for early detection and treatment. Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment and improves overall outcomes.
Identifying symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss can help you to seek medical attention, leading to timely diagnosis and intervention.
Treatment options for colorectal cancer depend on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, among other options.
Educating yourself about the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer can help you recognize potential issues and take action early.
So let’s move forward and learn about its symptoms.
9 Signs and Symptoms of Early Colon Cancer
Recognizing the symptoms and signs of colon cancer is crucial for early detection and prompt treatment. Paying attention to these signs can help people identify potential issues and seek medical advice as fast as they can.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the specific symptoms associated with colon cancer:
1. Presence of blood in stool that may be red or dark in color
The presence of blood in stool can be a symptom of early colon cancer. Cancer cells can cause bleeding in the colon, which can be seen in the stool. However, blood in stool can also be caused by other conditions, such as hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, or infections.
Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and to determine the most appropriate course of action.
Screening tests, such as fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) or colonoscopies, may be recommended to detect the presence of colon cancer and to identify any abnormalities in the colon.
2. Change in bowel habits that may be constipation or diarrhea
A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a persistent change in the frequency or consistency of stools, can be a symptom of early colon cancer. However, it is important to note that many people with early-stage colon cancer do not experience any symptoms.
3. Abdominal pain or cramping
Abdominal discomfort or cramping, along with bloating, can sometimes be caused by a tumor in the colon. However, these symptoms can be caused by a wide range of conditions.
4. Feeling like the bowel doesn’t empty completely
Feeling like the bowel doesn’t empty completely is a common symptom of early-stage colon cancer.
5. Unexplained weight loss
Unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of colon cancer, especially in the early stages of the disease. Cancer cells consume more energy than normal cells, which can lead to weight loss due to the body burning more calories than usual.
Unintentional weight loss of 10 kgs or more may be a concern, especially when coupled with other symptoms that could indicate colon cancer. However, unexplained weight loss can also be caused by many other conditions and is not always a sign of cancer.
6. Fatigue or weakness
Fatigue or weakness can be symptoms of colon cancer. Individuals with colon cancer can experience extreme tiredness and fatigue, which may be related to the cancer itself.
7. Anemia
Anemia is a common extraintestinal symptom of colon cancer. Anemia occurs when the tumor in the colon starts to bleed, reducing the levels of red blood cells, which can lead to anemia.
Preoperative anemia is frequently observed in colon cancer patients, with reported case incidences of greater than 30%. Iron deficiency is highly prevalent among patients with colorectal cancer, with a rate of 60%.
Chronic bleeding may lead to iron deficiency anemia, which can make you feel tired and weak.
8. Narrow stools
Narrow stools can be a symptom of colon cancer, especially if they are pencil-thin and occur frequently. This may be a sign of the colon becoming narrowed or obstructed due to the presence of a tumor. Narrow stools can be an early warning sign of colon cancer. Less commonly, narrow stools can also be caused by constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and anal or parasitic gut infections.
9. Bloating
Frequent bloating can be a symptom of colon cancer. However, it’s important to note that occasional bloating is a common digestive issue and can be caused by many other conditions as well, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal disorders.
Role of MedicoExperts in colon cancer screening
MedicoExperts play a crucial role in colon cancer screening. They can help individuals understand the importance of screening tests and identify the appropriate screening method based on their age, family history, and other risk factors.
For instance, a healthcare professional, such as a primary care physician or gastroenterologist, may recommend routine screening tests, such as colonoscopies, for early detection of colon cancer in individuals with certain risk factors, such as a family history of the disease.
Additionally, experts can help individuals understand the test results and provide recommendations for follow-up testing or treatment if necessary.
When it comes to the treatment journey of colon cancer, MedicoExpert tumor boards can play an important role in determining the best possible care plan.
A tumor board brings together doctors with different expertise such as medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and pathologists, to review patient cases and determine the most optimal treatment plan.
The involvement of a tumor board can lead to improved treatment outcomes, reduced treatment-related morbidity, and increased patient satisfaction. Patients may reach out to tumor boards to discuss complex cases or situations where different treatment approaches may be considered.
Conclusion
By recognizing these indicators and seeking timely medical attention, you can significantly increase your chances of successful treatment and recovery.
Remember, your health is invaluable, so don’t ignore any unusual changes in your body. Stay vigilant, prioritize regular screenings, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Your proactive approach to monitoring your health can make a significant difference in combating colon cancer.
References
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35298272/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2001051/
https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2023/colorectal-cancer-young-people-warning-signs
