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Early Warning Signs of Colon Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

HomeConditionsCancer

ByAgkidzone Staff
Updated: Nov 7, 2024

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Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in both men and women, with risk increasing as we age. While many cases stem from pre-existing polyps, colon cancer can also develop independently. Due to its location in the abdomen and its potential to spread, colon cancer has a high mortality rate. The good news? If detected early, colon cancer has a cure rate of over 90%.

Family History
Having one or more family members with colon cancer increases your own risk, especially if a parent or sibling has had the disease. Although a family history of colon cancer doesn’t mean you’ll develop it, it’s a reminder to pay close attention to symptoms and get screened regularly. If you have a family history of colon cancer and notice any symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a doctor.
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Blood in Stool
As colon cancer grows, it can invade the colon wall and damage blood vessels. When this happens, blood may be visible in the stool. It might appear as drops of blood in the toilet bowl, smears on toilet paper, or streaks on the stool itself. Blood in stool is more common with cancers located in the lower colon and rectum. However, blood can also result from hemorrhoids, so seeing blood isn’t a definite sign of cancer but should still be checked by a doctor.
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Black or Tarry Stool
Another potential warning sign is black or tarry stool. This can indicate bleeding from higher up in the colon, where blood has more time to break down before it exits the body. While black stool may also come from bleeding in the stomach, small intestines, or esophagus, it’s a sign that warrants medical attention if it persists.
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Cramping or Pain
Colon cancer can irritate the intestinal lining, leading to cramping or abdominal pain. Though other conditions, such as infections or menstruation, can also cause cramping, it’s wise to consult a doctor if the discomfort lasts more than a few days, especially if other symptoms are present. Keep in mind that some people with colon cancer may not experience any pain.
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Weakness, Fatigue, or Lightheadedness
Feelings of weakness, tiredness, or lightheadedness can be a sign of colon cancer, particularly if it leads to chronic bleeding. Over time, ongoing blood loss can cause anemia, leading to symptoms of iron deficiency, such as fatigue. Cancer itself may also cause tiredness due to the release of certain proteins or from the body’s energy being consumed by the growing tumor.
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Diarrhea
A change in bowel habits, including persistent diarrhea, can sometimes indicate colon cancer. For instance, someone who usually has regular, solid bowel movements may start experiencing loose stools or more frequent bowel movements. Diarrhea can often result from benign causes, but if it continues for more than a few weeks, it’s best to get it evaluated.
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Constipation
Constipation, or infrequent and difficult bowel movements, may also signal colon cancer. While constipation is common and often due to factors like diet changes, dehydration, or low physical activity, prolonged constipation lasting two or more weeks should be discussed with a healthcare provider, as it could indicate an underlying issue.
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Narrowing of Stool
Historically, narrow stools were considered a “classic” sign of colon cancer. This refers to stools that are pencil-thin or stringy in appearance, as opposed to the usual 1-2 inches in diameter. However, stool shape can vary due to different factors, including diet. If you notice narrow stools along with other symptoms, it may be worth discussing with your doctor.
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Unexplained Weight Loss
Unintentional weight loss is common in people with advanced cancers, including colon cancer. Weight loss may result from cancer progression, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort that reduces appetite. While weight loss can sometimes be desirable, a sudden drop without changes in diet or activity level is concerning and should be assessed by a medical professional.
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Persistent Urge to Defecate
An ongoing urge to have a bowel movement that isn’t relieved by actually going to the bathroom can also indicate colon cancer, particularly if it affects the lower colon or rectum. This sensation may be caused by increased pressure on the bowel from a tumor. If the urge to go doesn’t go away after using the bathroom, it’s worth mentioning to your healthcare provider.
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This site offers information designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information on this site as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

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