Colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. It is caused by the abnormal growth of cells in the colon, beginning in the large intestine (colon) and spreading to other body parts, such as the rectum and anus. The good news is that this cancer is preventable and curable if caught early. Therefore, it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of colon cancer and seek medical assistance. Here are five early warning signs of colon cancer:
1. Abdominal pain
Colon cancer can sometimes cause pain in the abdomen. In fact, it is often one of the first symptoms to develop. This is usually characterized as a sharp, cramp-like pain that comes and goes. Of course, abdominal pain can be caused by a wide variety of conditions and issues. To differentiate abdominal pain from colon cancer from other types of stomach pain, pay attention to the location of the pain. Abdominal pain associated with colon cancer is usually felt in the lower left side of the abdomen. Regardless of the location, however, sharp abdominal pain may indicate that there is a serious issue, and you should seek the opinion of a medical professional.
2. Feeling like the bowel won’t empty
If you experience extreme constipation, or the feeling that the bowel won’t empty, this could be a sign of colon cancer. This is because cancer can block the passageway of the intestine, causing the stool to back up and leading to constipation. If you experience this symptom, it is important to see a doctor.
3. Diarrhea or constipation
If you recognize any consistent, radical change in your bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation that lasts for a few days, this could be an early warning sign of colon cancer. To remedy these issues, make sure you drink plenty of fluids and eat high-fiber foods. However, if symptoms don’t improve, consult with a doctor for other potential underlying causes.
4. Rectal bleeding or blood in stool
If you have noticed bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool, this could signify colon cancer. This is usually a mild symptom and may only appear as occasional spotting. However, if the bleeding is persistent or gets worse, it could indicate a more serious problem. It is important to see a doctor if you experience this symptom. If you suspect you may have an issue in your colon, look for blood in your stool or on the toilet paper after wiping. The blood may be red, black, or maroon.
These are just a few of the early warning signs of colon cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor. Early detection is critical to preventing colon cancer from spreading and becoming more serious. With prompt treatment, most people with colon cancer can be cured.
