How I Knew I Had Colon Cancer: Early Signs and Pain Explained

Are you experiencing unusual bowel habits, blood in your stool, or unexplained weight loss? These could be early signs of colon cancer.

Early detection of colon cancer dramatically improves survival rates, but many people delay seeking medical advice due to a lack of awareness.

Discover how recognizing these signs early can lead to effective treatment and even a full recovery.

Here’s a personal journey of Mark Porter’s recognizing the warning signs of colon cancer and how timely action led to successful treatment.

How Mark Porter’s (I) Discovered his Colon Cancer Symptoms

Hi, I’m Mark Porter. In 2020, while living in Lagos, Nigeria, I started noticing unusual changes in my body:

• Blood in my stool.
• Difficulty emptying my bowels.
• Thin, pencil-like stools.
• Persistent abdominal cramps.

At first, I thought it was something minor like hemorrhoids. But when these symptoms persisted despite medications, I knew something was seriously wrong. My gastroenterologist confirmed my worst fear: stage 2 colorectal cancer.

What Does Colon Cancer Pain Feel Like?

Colon cancer pain is distinct and often ignored in its early stages. Here’s what it may feel like:

1. Cramping in the Abdomen: Persistent pain, often sharp, that worsens over time.
2. Rectal Pain: A dull ache or sharp pain, especially during bowel movements.
3. Bloating and Gas: Unusual bloating even without eating spicy or heavy meals.
4. Pelvic Pain: Discomfort in the pelvic region, which can become constant as the disease progresses.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer often starts silently but presents noticeable signs over time. Here’s what to watch for:

1. Blood in Stool

The presence of blood in the stool is not a good sign and may be the very first sign of colon cancer. 

However, Mark was still not sure about cancer as the presence of hemorrhoids can also cause blood in the stool. 

Note: Bright red or dark stool indicates bleeding in the colon.

2. Change in Stool Shape

The presence of blood in the stool is not a good sign and may be the very first sign of colon cancer. 

However, Mark was still not sure about cancer as the presence of hemorrhoids can also cause blood in the stool. 

Note: Thin or ribbon-like stools can signal a blockage in the colon.

3. Loss of Appetite

I was not feeling well and had a very poor appetite. My urge to eat tasty and delicious food was completely gone. 

Note: A sudden aversion to food, especially heavy or rich meals.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss

I was not exercising or doing a lot of hard work, but my weight was drastically decreasing. I lost 15 kgs in 2 months. 

Note: Losing weight without changes in diet or exercise.

5. Persistent Constipation

I was having constipation for a long period and it was not reduced even after taking laxatives

Note: Difficulty passing stool despite taking laxatives.

6. Abdominal Pain or Cramping

I was feeling pain in my pelvic region and a cramp in my rectum. The pain was disturbing and it made me awake even at night time. 

Note: Sharp, localized pain in the lower abdomen or rectal area.

7. Bloating or Gas

Bloating and gas were two irritating symptoms. Although it was normal to feel bloated sometimes, I was feeling bloated even without taking spicy food or alcoholic drinks.

Note: Constant bloating even after consuming light meals.

8. Fatigue or Anemia

I was having mild anemia due to continuous bleeding in my intestine. 

Note: Low iron levels due to internal bleeding may cause fatigue.

All these symptoms made me think that I might have colon cancer which needed immediate treatment. 

Why Early Diagnosis is Crucial

Colon cancer is highly treatable in its early stages:

• Survival Rates: Early-stage colon cancer has a 90% success rate, while advanced stages drop significantly.
• Minimally Invasive Treatments: Early detection allows for laparoscopic or robotic surgery, which reduces recovery time.
• Improved Quality of Life: Timely treatment prevents complications like intestinal blockages or metastasis.

My Treatment Journey and Recovery

After my diagnosis, I decided to travel to India for advanced treatment. Through MedicoExperts’ guidance, I underwent:

1. Robotic Partial Colectomy: A minimally invasive surgery to remove the cancerous section of my colon.
2. Radiation Therapy: Targeted therapy to destroy remaining cancer cells.
3. Chemotherapy: To prevent recurrence.

Within five months, I was cancer-free. Thanks to early diagnosis and expert care, I regained my health and confidence.

Why Choose MedicoExperts for Colon Cancer Care?

MedicoExperts connects you with top oncologists and advanced treatment facilities in India. Here’s how they help:

• Personalized Treatment Plans: A tumor board of surgical oncologists, radiologists, and medical oncologists ensures a tailored approach.
• Access to Advanced Technology: Options like robotic surgery for precision and faster recovery.
• Cost-Effective Care: High-quality treatment at affordable prices.
• End-to-End Support: Assistance with travel, hospital selection, and follow-up care.

Conclusion :

Various symptoms made me think I might be suffering from colon cancer. A colonoscopy confirmed it. 

I came to India and took the help of MedicoExperts’ tumour board. The tumour board had the right combination of all three specialist doctors surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiologists. 

MedicoExperts also introduced me to the doctors who performed robotic surgery. The organization helped me to select the right hospital at the right cost. 

MedicoExperts is recommended at every step of the patient’s treatment and recovery journey. 

FAQ

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized diagnosis and treatment.