10 Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is a tricky disease. You can go without symptoms for many years until the disease has progressed into the later stages. However, just because this is possible does not mean you should not be on the look out for the signs and symptoms of colon cancer. Because when it is caught in time, you can completely recover from colon cancer. This is particularly why colon cancer screening is so important. However, there are many things you can keep an eye out for as well.
Bleeding
Rectal bleeding is a major sign of colon cancer. However, bleeding can be a sign of many other conditions such as hemorrhoids, fissures, the consumption of certain foods or iron supplements. Make sure to eliminate the possibility of these conditions before becoming overly concerned. Rectal bleeding can be caused by many different factors. These are just a few things you can research about this subject:
Pain
If you have pain in your lower abdomen, it could be a sign of colon cancer. Again, this can also be a sign of many other conditions, so it is important to see your doctor. Some subjects you want to further research about abdomen pain:
Change in Bowel Movements
A change in bowel movements is always a sign that something is amiss. It could be due to a change in diet, stress or some other factors, but again, see your doctor to find out for sure. This is especially the case when you have dramatic changes such as suddenly having watery stools, frequent stools, constipation or feeling as though your bowels have not entirely emptied. Do more search about these:
Anemia
Sometimes, a sudden onset of anemia can be a sign of colon cancer. Visit your doctor to find out the cause. But don’t forget, there are many different types of anemia:
Weight Loss
A sudden, dramatic or unexplained weight loss can be a sign of colon cancer. It is a somewhat rare symptom, so should definitely warrant immediate medical attention. Unexplained dramatic weight loss could be serious.
Sponsored Advertisement
Abdominal Tenderness
Sometimes, the lower abdomen can be tender to the touch if you have colon cancer. It all depends on where the cancer is located in the colon, really.
Narrow Stools
If your stool suddenly appears thin or narrow, it may be a sign of colon cancer. This is especially the case if your stools become narrow all of a sudden. Stools typically take on a narrow appearance due to an obstruction in the bowels.
Fatigue
A sudden loss of energy can be a sign of many conditions, but it can also be a sign of colon cancer. If you feel run down and unable to function, it may be a good time to head off to the doctor.
Bloating
Again, bloating can be a sign of many conditions, but it is also indicative of colon cancer. You may simply feel bloated for no reason or your abdomen may be visibly distended. In either case, it is a good idea to have the condition checked out with your physician.
Shortness of Breath
As you may have gathered by now, symptoms of colon cancer can imitate many other conditions as well. If you feel out of breath often or feel as though you can not catch your breath, see your doctor.
So you see the common theme here? See your doctor! At least get a fecal occult colon cancer test, and see if you have blood in your stool. Symptoms of colon cancer can be sneaky and the key to successful treatment is early diagnosis. Do not risk it. If you feel ‘off’ and exhibit any combination of the above symptoms, let your physician know about it.
Related posts
(2 votes, average: 1.50 out of 5)
Loading ...
Loading ...
October 28th, 2008 at 6:07 am
I feel all of these symptoms…only not weight loss, but instead a slight weight gain…i am awaiting fecal occult blood results.
I am worried though!
December 2nd, 2008 at 9:13 am
I have experienced 6 of these symptoms over the last year and every test I have had comes back negative. The only ones I have NOT had are weight loss, anemia, fatigue. I had an endoscopy to look at my stomach and esphagas and my esphagas is real irritated so they have had me taking Prilosec OTC for almost a year which has helped to a point but has not made it go away. I don’t know if I should go back to the Dr or just deal with it seeing as how every test they do comes back negative and I waste all this time and money only to be told I am fine.
February 2nd, 2009 at 11:11 am
I have almost similar symptoms, except for anemia and weight loss, I already went for check-up twice and the doctor just prescribed duspatalin, motillium and pankreoflat (his findings were upset colon), ultrasound result is negative, there’s a slight abdominal pain and it’s not painful when a pressure or force is applied on my lower abdomen (maybe he’s checking if a lump/tumor have developed), but I’m going to have a second opinion though, just to make sure, hopefully this is not it.
May 12th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
All 3 of you, regardless of age, should have a colonoscopy. This is the best test to see if there is any colon condition to explain your symptoms. Usually ANY change in bowel habits, or bleeding from the rectum should be evaluated by Colonoscopy. Push for it even if you are not at average age for Colon Cancer Screening that is typically done at age 50. If you have a first degree relative with colon polyps or colon cancer you have a higher risk for cancer. Don’t let anyone tell you that you are too young for a colonoscopy. I am a RN in gastroenterology for over 20 years. We are seeing polyps and cancers in people under 40 more often. There is no need to wait. Please push for the colonoscopy…