Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The disease often develops silently, showing few symptoms in its early stages. However, early detection dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment. Being aware of the warning signs can save lives. Here are 8 colon cancer symptoms you should never ignore.
A renowned gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi, trained at Harvard, AIIMS and Stanford Universities has shared eight crucial signs of colon cancer that one should never ignore. Since this tumour grows silently, most people tend to overlook the symptoms.
8 Colo Cancer Warning Signs
In the post, the gastroenterologist pointed out that subtle signs like changes in your bowel movement, unexplained weight loss, pain in the abdomen, fatigue, or even the feeling of incomplete bowel movement can all point towards colon cancer. Therefore, at the first sign, one should visit their physician.
1. Blood in Stool
One of the most common symptoms of colon cancer is the presence of blood in stool. While blood may appear bright red or dark in color, sometimes it can be hidden and only detected through a stool test. Bright red or dark, tarry stool can signal bleeding in the colon. Dr. Sethi iterates that one shouldn’t assume it’s just a case of haemorrhoids.
2. Persistent Bowel Changes
Constipation, diarrhoea, or narrowing of stools lasting more than a few days is a red flag and must be considered as a serious warning sign. If you notice that your bowel habits remain irregular for more than a few weeks, it’s important to consult a doctor.
3. Abdominal Pain or Cramping
Frequent bloating, cramps, or abdominal pain that’s new or unexplained deserves attention and general check-up without delay. Persistent abdominal discomfort, bloating, cramps, or pain in the stomach area could indicate an underlying issue, including colon cancer.
4. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without dieting or lifestyle changes could mean your gut isn’t absorbing nutrients properly, which definitely is a major warning sign and a potential cause. Cancer cells consume a lot of the body’s energy and may interfere with nutrient absorption, leading to weight loss. If you notice dropping kilos without reason, it’s worth a medical evaluation.
5. Ongoing Fatigue
Chronic tiredness, weakness, or dizziness may result from slow blood loss and anaemia, and could be a sign of colon cancer. Colon cancer can cause hidden internal bleeding, which leads to anemia and low red blood cell counts. This, in turn, makes the body weak and tired. If you feel exhausted all the time, don’t ignore it.
6. Iron-deficiency Anaemia
If labs show low iron content in the body, especially in men or post-menopausal women, it can be an early hidden sign of colon cancer, and this must be checked so that necessary tests can be carried out.
7. Feeling of Incompleteness
If it feels like you ‘can’t finish’ after a bowel movement, it may point to blockage or tumour growth, which is a major roadblock in healthy living. If you often feel that your bowel doesn’t empty completely even after using the toilet, it might be more than a digestive issue. This sensation, known as tenesmus, is a potential warning sign of colon or rectal cancer.
8. Family History
Lastly, if you have close relatives with colon cancer, it increases your risk. Therefore, don’t delay screening if symptoms appear, since hereditary cases often bring great sense of problems with it as the delay increases. If caught early, there’s a 5-year survival rate of 90 percent.
Why Early Detection Matters
Colon cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Unfortunately, many people ignore the initial symptoms, mistaking them for common digestive issues. Regular screening tests such as colonoscopies, stool DNA tests, and sigmoidoscopies are strongly recommended, especially for individuals above 45 or those with risk factors. Colon cancer may not always show obvious symptoms in the beginning, but being alert to changes in your body can make all the difference. If you notice any of these 8 colon cancer warnings, don’t ignore them. Early detection can lead to timely treatment and better survival rates.
Preventive Steps You Can Take
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Eat a fiber-rich diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.
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Limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking.
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Stay hydrated and avoid processed foods.
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Get routine colon cancer screenings as advised by your doctor.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
