Health & Life

Expert Warning: 10 Unmissable Signs of Bowel Cancer

Colorectal cancer, if not detected early, can cause severe damage to the colon and rectum, even putting lives at risk.

29 February, 2024

161

Colorectal cancer ranks third among the most common cancers worldwide; however, the cure rate can be very high if the disease is detected in the early stages. Nevertheless, lack of awareness about the signs of colorectal cancer in many people leads to delayed diagnosis, worsening the health condition.

Change in bowel habits

One of the first and commonly observed signs of colorectal cancer is long-term changes in bowel patterns, lasting for more than a few weeks. This can manifest as diarrhea, constipation, or changes in the consistency of the stool. You may also experience discomfort, such as feeling incomplete evacuation or the need to go more frequently.

Blood in the stool

The presence of blood in the stool, which can be bright red, dark red, or even black, can indicate colorectal cancer. This blood may be clearly visible on the surface of the stool or hidden inside it, and is usually detectable through specialized medical tests.

Abdominal discomfort

Persistent abdominal pain, especially if accompanied by symptoms such as bloating, a sense of cramping or unexplained fullness, can be a warning sign of colorectal cancer. This pain may radiate to the abdominal or pelvic area and tends to worsen over time.

Unexplained weight loss

Unexplained weight loss, especially when it occurs abruptly without any changes in lifestyle or level of physical activity, can be a warning sign of various cancers, including colorectal cancer. This weight loss is often accompanied by loss of appetite or abnormal feeling of fullness.

Prolonged fatigue

Long-term fatigue that doesn’t diminish even after rest can also be a symptom of colorectal cancer. This fatigue may stem from anemia due to continuous bleeding from the tumor.

Rectal bleeding

In addition to detecting blood in the stool, rectal bleeding is also an important sign to pay attention to as it can be an indication of colorectal cancer. This bleeding may not occur regularly and can appear with or without bowel movements.

Changes in stool shape

Changes in the size and shape of the stool, such as smaller and thinner stools than usual, can be a sign of blockage in the colon or rectum due to the presence of a mass. This condition should be given special attention if it is not recognized early.

Feeling of abdominal fullness

Feeling of bloating and prolonged discomfort in the abdomen, even when eating a small amount of food, can be a warning sign of colorectal cancer. The cause may originate from a tumor causing obstruction or affecting the bowel’s squeezing process.

Weakness or dizziness

Prolonged blood loss from a tumor in the intestines can cause anemia due to reduced iron, resulting in the body becoming weaker, feeling fatigue, having headaches, and breathing rapidly. If not addressed, these symptoms can worsen as the anemia is not corrected.

Change in bowel frequency

Continuous changes in bathroom frequency, including cases of prolonged diarrhea or unrelieved constipation, can indicate the risk of developing colorectal cancer. These changes are persistent and often accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain or bloating.

Colorectal cancer is a serious condition that needs to be detected early for timely treatment. Being aware of the signs of the disease helps us proactively seek diagnosis and treatment, thereby improving health outcomes and reducing the risk of disease progression.

Frequently asked questions

The key signs to look out for include long-term changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency, lasting for several weeks. Other indicators are blood in the stool, which can vary in color, abdominal discomfort or a feeling of fullness, unexplained weight loss, and prolonged fatigue.

Yes, rectal bleeding may not always occur with bowel movements and can be irregular. Also, changes in stool shape, such as thinner stools, can indicate a blockage. Additionally, anemia caused by tumor-related blood loss can lead to weakness, dizziness, and rapid breathing.

The symptoms mentioned can also be associated with other health issues. However, if you experience persistent and prolonged changes in bowel habits, accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain or bloating, it is important to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis.

Colorectal cancer, when detected early, has a high cure rate. Being aware of the signs and symptoms allows for proactive diagnosis and treatment, improving health outcomes and reducing the risk of the disease progressing.