The symptoms of colon cancer are often not clear in the early stages, which is why detecting the early signs is extremely important, as early diagnosis means more successful treatment.
When colon cancer first develops and is still small, it often does not cause any symptoms. The symptoms can also be subtle and may not necessarily make the patient feel uncomfortable.
As the tumor grows, the symptoms and signs can vary, depending on the location of the tumor.
Here are the top 5 most common early symptoms of colon cancer, as listed by Patient.info:
1. Bleeding from the tumor
There may be blood mixed with the stool. Sometimes the blood can make the stool turn black.
Bleeding is usually not severe and in many cases, it goes unnoticed, as it is just a small amount mixed with the stool.
However, frequent small amounts of bleeding can lead to anemia, making the patient feel tired and pale, according to Express.
2. Stool having more mucus than usual
The Mayo Clinic advises that if there is a small amount of mucus in the stool, it is usually not a cause for concern. The stool normally contains a small amount of mucus – which has the purpose of keeping the mucous membrane of the colon moist and lubricated.
Patient.info advises, “Seek medical attention if you notice an increase in the amount of mucus in the stool.”
3. Changes in bowel habits
This means having more or fewer bowel movements than usual, experiencing diarrhea or constipation.
4. Feeling “incomplete” after a bowel movement
According to The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, this is quite common if the tumor is located in the rectum, according to Express.
5. Abdominal pain
Abdominal pain is also the most common early symptom Photo: Shutterstock |
The UK National Health Service (NHS) states that persistent lower abdominal pain, bloating, or discomfort can be a sign of the disease.
As the tumor develops in the colon or rectum, the symptoms can become more severe.
According to Patient.info, similar symptoms as above, but more severe, include:
• Generally feeling unwell, tired, or experiencing weight loss.
• If the cancer is large enough, it can cause a blockage in the colon. This leads to severe abdominal pain and vomiting.
• Sometimes, the cancer creates a hole in the colon or rectum wall, causing the stool to leak into the abdomen, resulting in severe pain.
It is important to note that these symptoms are not always related to colon cancer.
Bloody diarrhea with mucus can be a sign of inflammatory bowel disease.
However, if you experience any of the above symptoms, regardless of the cause, it is recommended to seek medical attention.
The UK Cancer Research UK advises not to hesitate if you feel worried about the symptoms. These symptoms may not be caused by colon cancer. But if they are, the chances of successful treatment are higher. It will not waste time.
What increases the risk of colon cancer?
Diet is one of the risk factors for developing colon cancer.
Several studies have shown that eating a lot of red and processed meat can increase the risk of the disease, so it is advisable to replace it with chicken or fish.
You can also try eating beans instead of meat.
Eating a diet high in fiber can also reduce the risk of colon cancer, according to Express.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several early symptoms that can indicate bowel cancer. These include bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool, a change in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation that lasts for more than a few days, abdominal pain and cramps, a feeling of not being able to empty the bowel properly, and unexplained weight loss.
While some gastrointestinal issues like occasional diarrhea or constipation are usually not a cause for concern, you should pay attention to any persistent or unusual changes. If you experience any of the mentioned symptoms, especially if they are persistent or severe, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Early detection of bowel cancer greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and survival. When detected early, the cancer is typically more localized and has not spread to other parts of the body. This makes it easier to treat and often results in a better prognosis. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical advice if you have any concerns.
Yes, there are several tests and procedures that can be used to diagnose bowel cancer. These may include a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, CT scan, MRI scan, blood tests, and a biopsy. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate tests based on your symptoms and risk factors.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk of bowel cancer. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in fiber and low in processed meat, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking. Additionally, participating in bowel cancer screening programs, if eligible, can help detect the disease at an early stage.
