Common Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer You Should Know

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 28, 2024

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Colorectal cancer ranks among the deadliest cancers because, in the early stages, most folks don't experience any symptoms. Reports show that over 60% of cases aren't diagnosed until after the cancer has spread. Therefore, being aware of all the potential symptoms of colorectal cancer is the best way to catch any issues early on. Although the symptoms of colorectal cancer aren't unique and could signal any number of less serious problems, it's crucial to pay attention. If any of these symptoms persist for more than a few days, it's best to see a doctor. After all, better safe than sorry.

Diarrhea

One of the main symptoms of colorectal cancer—and often the first people notice—is a change in bowel habits. This frequently takes the form of a change in stool consistency, such as diarrhea. Moreover, dizziness can sometimes accompany diarrhea, especially when standing up after sitting on the toilet.

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Constipation

Another possible change in bowel habits is constipation. Like diarrhea, the duration and severity can vary significantly. However, doctors can prescribe medications if it becomes a notable issue. Additionally, drinking plenty of fluids and eating high-fiber foods helps improve bowel movement frequency and consistency. Without any treatment, constipation from colorectal cancer can lead to fecal impaction or bowel obstruction.

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Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation

While both constipation and diarrhea can indicate colorectal cancer, they are also common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and many other issues. The more telling sign of cancer is if a person frequently alternates between constipation and diarrhea and also experiences unintended weight loss, extreme fatigue, and blood in the stool. When these symptoms occur together, they suggest cancer. Therefore, visiting a medical professional immediately is key.

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Rectum Feels Full

In the early stages of colorectal cancer, a person may feel like they need to use the bathroom at unusual times. Yet, performing a bowel movement does nothing to alleviate this sensation. This feeling may also resemble gas or bloating, or simply feeling full. For some, it presents as cramps or sharp pain in the abdomen.

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Pencil Stools

As tumors grow, the intestinal passage slowly narrows. Consequently, over time, the development of scar tissue and strictures can further shrink the passage. This leads to stools that are extremely narrow in shape, sometimes as thin as a pencil—earning them the nickname "pencil" stools.

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Pain With Defecation

Also known as dyschezia, intense pain while attempting to defecate is a common symptom of colorectal cancer. In adults, dyschezia typically occurs alongside constipation. Like constipation, dyschezia often causes straining during bowel movements, which may worsen the pain. Additionally, bowel movements may take longer than usual, sometimes more than 10 minutes to complete.

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Blood in the Stool

As colorectal cancer worsens, blood may become visible in the stool. If the tumor is near the rectum, the blood may appear bright red. Conversely, if the tumor is further up in the colon, the blood may have a dark red or maroon color. Since many different issues can cause blood in the stool, visiting a doctor is the best way to determine the problem.

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Anemia

Around 48% of people with colorectal cancer develop symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia, which also has links to worse short-term prospects, including longer hospital stays and a higher risk of mortality. Furthermore, iron-deficiency anemia is difficult to manage in individuals with colorectal cancer, as iron therapy may stimulate tumor growth.

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Fatigue

Due to the physical strain that colorectal cancer causes, as well as symptoms like bleeding and anemia, people with the condition often feel fatigued. Fatigue usually combines extreme tiredness with weakness or general weariness that is not relieved by sleeping. It's often a result of low red blood cell counts and is one of the earliest symptoms to manifest.

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Unwanted Weight Loss

Unintended weight loss is almost always a sign of a condition that requires medical attention. As colorectal cancer enters the advanced stages, systemic inflammation can trigger both muscle and weight loss. It also leads to a notable lack of appetite, which further exacerbates weight loss.

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Black, Tarry Stools

In the later stages of colorectal cancer, bleeding often occurs in the upper gastrointestinal area. Consequently, digestive enzymes and intestinal bacteria cause hemoglobin in the blood to darken during its passage toward the rectum. As a result, stools take on a dark color with a sticky, tar-like texture. The medical term for this is melena.

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Obstruction

Narrowing of the gastrointestinal passage due to tumor growth and strictures can continue to limit bowel movements if an individual does not receive treatment. Over time, this leads to bowel obstructions. If the blockage is large enough, there may be visible ballooning of the rectum. Without treatment, these blockages are potentially deadly, which is why it's so vital to visit a medical professional when experiencing severe constipation or alternating diarrhea and constipation.

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