5 Early Warning Signs of Colon Cancer

Cancer is a scary word. No one wants to hear that they have it, but unfortunately, cancer is a reality for many people. While there are many different types of cancer, colon cancer is one of the most common. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, more than 95,000 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer in 2019 alone. While colon cancer is a serious disease, the good news is that it can be caught early. When detected early, the survival rate for colon cancer patients is more than 90%. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of the early warning signs of this disease. Here are 5 signs to look out for:

1. Diarrhea or constipation
Constipation and diarrhea are common digestive issues, but they can also be early warning signs of colon cancer. They simplify, which means that your digestive system has difficulty processing food. This can be a result of a blockage in the colon caused by a tumor. Also, keep an eye out for changes in your bowel habits that last more than a few days. Hence, it is best to see a doctor if you experience any of these issues.

2. Blood in your stool

Another key sign of colorectal cancer has a stool that is mixed with blood. This usually presents as small amounts of bright red blood in the toilet bowl or on toilet paper. It simplifies, it means that there is bleeding in the digestive tract. Several things can cause this, but it is always best to get it checked out by a doctor to be safe. However, it is crucial to remember that blood in the stool can also be caused by other, less serious conditions like hemorrhoids.

3. Rectal bleeding

Bleeding in the rectum is another early warning sign of colon cancer. This is because the rectum is the lower part of the colon, where stool is stored before it is ready to be expelled. Cancerous tumors cause this bleeding in the rectum or colon. It can present as small amounts of blood in the stool or toilet paper, or it can be much more severe. Either way, it is vital to see a specialist if you experience any rectal bleeding.

4. Abdominal pain

Pain in the abdomen also commonly occurs in people with colon cancer. This pain is caused by the tumors growing and pressing on nearby organs. The pain can vary in intensity, but it is usually a dull ache that worsens over time. However, abdominal pain can also be caused by many other conditions, so don’t be overly anxious if you experience it. Just make sure to see a doctor so they can rule out anything serious.

5. Feeling like the bowel won’t empty completely

A feeling of incomplete evacuation is another common symptom of colon cancer. This occurs when the tumors block the normal passage of stool through the colon. As a result, people may feel like they need to poop even after they have already gone to the bathroom. This can be very uncomfortable, and it is vital to see a doctor if you experience it. Also, keep an eye out for any changes in your bathroom habits, like having to poop more frequently or having softer stools.

These are just a few of the early warning signs of colon cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to see a doctor so they can rule out anything serious. Early detection is critical when treating colon cancer, so don’t hesitate to get checked out if you have any concerns.

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