Colon Cancer Symptoms
If you are concerned about colon cancer then it is important to know and understand what colon cancer symptoms to be on the look out for. Some symptoms of colon cancer affect the colon and digestive system directly while others show warning signs in other areas of the body. It is also key to keep in mind that while in early development, colorectal cancer (colon cancer) may exhibit no symptoms of any kind whatsoever, thus obtaining the nickname of “the silent killer”. So if you are in a high risk group, it is essential that you have regular check ups with your doctor and schedule a colonoscopy to thoroughly examine the health of your colon.
The earlier colon cancer is diagnosed, the better the prognosis of a successful treatment. Proper and regular screening is highly encouraged. It is important to stay in tune with any changes your body may be going through. And while it may not be the most pleasant of activities, it is paramount to be aware of your bowel movements. If you notice any of the changes described below you should consult your doctor for a proper examination.
Colon Cancer Symptoms – Colon and Digestive System
The most apparent symptoms of colon cancer you will notice will show up in the bathroom as they affect your bowel movements. Paying close attention to your stools, while not the most joyous activity, can have significant health benefits. Some possible colorectal cancer symptoms to keep a watch out for include the following:
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Smaller stools (pencil stools)
- Blood in Stools
- Rectal bleeding
- Sudden changes in bowel movements and habits
- Abdominal pain and discomfort
Constipation – this is a rather generic symptom that can be caused by numerous other conditions but in the case of colon cancer it may be the result of a tumor causing an obstruction. Prolonged constipation, regardless of its possible cause, should be something you inform your doctor about.
Bloating – another generic symptom that may point to a possible obstruction or blockage that traps gas in the colon.
Pencil Stools – these are usually caused by some obstruction in the colon, rectum, or anus. Overly thin stools can also be caused by conditions such as hemorrhoids.
Bloody Stools – while overtly bloody stools are easy to spot and a clear sign that something may not be right, sometimes stools may contain blood which may not apparent upon visual inspection. Your doctor may take a fecal sample to perform a blood occult test to determine if there are any small amounts of blood found in the stool. Other conditions that may lead to blood in the stool are hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
Since the colon is part of the digestive system, it is beneficial to observe the state of your bowel movements and notice if there are any sudden changes. Obviously, blood in the rectum or bloody stools is a rather noticeable and alarming symptom that something is off but other symptoms such as smaller stools, diarrhea or constipation or alternating between the two, abdominal pain and cramping should be given significant attention as well, especially if the changes are sudden.
The presence of any of the above symptoms does not automatically mean you have colon cancer, there are other less severe conditions that also share the same symptoms. It should, however, motivate you to consult with your physician to determine the causes of these symptoms and take the proper action to treat any underlying condition. Ignoring possible colon cancer symptoms may severely hamper the chances of early detection. Take note of any changes in your bowel movements and pass that information along to your doctor.
Colon Cancer Symptoms – Other Areas of the Body
While most colon cancer symptoms are easily linked with the digestive system, there may be other symptoms that occur outside of the colon that one should be aware of.
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Sudden weight loss
- Unexplained anemia
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Jaundice (yellowing in the whites of the eyes and skin)
These are more general symptoms that could be caused by a number of other conditions and often do not get associated by patients as to something being wrong with their colon. Not all symptoms may be colon cancer symptoms but it is important to pay attention to all warning signs the body may be showing that something may be wrong.
I’m Worried I have Colon Cancer Symptoms, What Should I Do?
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms for any length of time and they don’t seem to be going away after a week or two than it is recommended that you consult your doctor right away. Sudden changes to the digestive system coupled with other symptoms of discomfort should be cause for concern and seeking proper medical advice should always be the first course of action. After discussing with your doctor your symptoms, several options to examine your colon cancer symptoms may be suggested such as a colonoscopy, barium enema, blood tests, CT scans or a virtual colonoscopy.
Many patients dread a colonoscopy probably because they may have heard stories about going through colonoscopy prep or just the idea of having anything stuck up their anus and rectum makes them cringe. However, the benefits of a colonoscopy are tremendous if it means catching anything harmful in its early stages. Locating and removing colon polyps early can have a tremendous impact on the prevention of colorectal cancer development. This is something that can be done during a colonoscopy procedure.
The more information you have on colon cancer symptoms the better choices you can make regarding your health. If you are in a high risk group which includes anyone over 50, anyone with a family history of colon cancer, or if you have already been treated for colon cancer, then you should be extra vigilant for any appearance of the symptoms of colon cancer and you should have regular screenings. As always, if you are worried you may exhibiting colorectal cancer symptoms do not put off seeing your doctor for a complete examination.
Below is a video further discussing colon cancer symptoms and signs.