Colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the US. According to the American Cancer Society, as many as 4.4% of women in the US stand a chance of developing it in their lifetime. Although there have been significant advances in colon cancer treatments, early detection of the disease affords the best prognosis. There are many early signs and symptoms of colon cancer that can be used to identify the disease before it is too late. Here is a list of 5 most common early colon cancer symptoms that you should not ignore. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with your physician for a proper diagnosis.
BLOOD IN STOOL
Although there can be several reasons for blood in the stools, it is never a sign of healthy colon. Bloody stools are one of the most common early signs of colon cancer. The bloody stools are often bright or dark red in color often mixed with mucus. If you observe blood in your stools on more than one occasion, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible. Your doctor will prescribe an occult stool test to assess the reason for the presence of blood in the stools. Depending on the result, further tests can be conducted to confirm or rule out colon cancer. However, you must keep in mind that the presence of blood in the stools is not a confirmation of colon cancer in any way.
RECTAL BLEEDING
Rectal bleeding is one of the most consistent signs of colon cancer according to an article published in BMC Medicine in 2009. Rectal bleeding may or may not occur during your bowel movements. You may see the signs of rectal bleeding in the toilet bowl water during bowel movements or urination. Most people experience some pain or discomfort during or after rectal bleeding. If you experience rectal bleeding, consult with your doctor as soon as possible.
DIFFICULTY IN PASSING STOOL
Colon cancer can cause difficulty in emptying the bowels. There is an urgency to empty the bowels but an inability to do so. Many patients feel like they are unable to pass the stools. Bloating and constipation are also quite common in such scenarios. Some people also experience an alteration in their bowel habits during early stages of colon cancer. If you experience chronic constipation, erratic bowel movements or difficulty to evacuate your bowels, it is crucial that you seek a medical opinion.
UNEXPECTED WEIGHT LOSS
Unexpected weight loss is never a good sign. Early stages of colon cancer can cause a loss of appetite and frequent constipation. Both these symptoms can cause a rapid and unexpected weight loss. If you are feeling emaciated, weak and are losing weight for no apparent reason, you should seek medical advice. It may be an early sign of colon cancer.
VOMITING AND NAUSEA
Experiencing frequent nausea and vomiting for no reason, it is a cause for concern. It can be an early symptom of colon cancer. Sometimes, these symptoms may show up first before the gastric and abdominal symptoms in case of colon cancer. Hence it is imperative to seek medical help if you are feeling queasy all the time for no good reason.
Colon cancer is a dangerous disease. The best defense against it is an early diagnosis. If you experience any symptoms that we just saw, don't ignore them reach out to your doctor as soon as you can. If caught early, colon cancer can be completely treatable.
A colonoscopy can detect lesions in the colon called polyps which are precursors of colon cancer. If you are over 50 years old, you should get a colonoscopy every ten years as a preventive measure. Remember, early detection is your best bet to win the battle against colon cancer.
