How to Recognize the Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is the second leading cause of death in the United States. It affects both men and women from all races and ethnicities. More than 90% of cases are diagnosed in individuals over the age of 50. Unfortunately, in its early stages, colon cancer often shows few or no symptoms. Don't panic if you experience symptoms resembling colon cancer, as they may be linked to various other conditions. Nevertheless, it's crucial to get checked as soon as possible. The best way to detect the disease early is by having regular health check-ups and screening tests.

Pay attention to the presence of blood in your stool. If you notice bleeding from the rectum that doesn't seem related to hemorrhoids or a tear, it's important to consult a doctor. Even if there's just a small amount of blood on the toilet paper, you should see a healthcare professional for further examination. Blood in the stool is a common sign of colon cancer.

• Blood in the stool may appear as bright red or darker than usual. If the bleeding originates higher in the colon, the stool may turn black. If you're uncertain about the presence of blood, contact your doctor for peace of mind.
• Blood in the stool may also cause an unusual odor. If you notice a significant change in the smell of your stool, don't hesitate to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Pay attention to changes in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation. If you experience alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation, this could be a sign to watch for. People with colon cancer might notice that their stools become narrow or thin, or they may feel an urge to pass stool even after already having a bowel movement. If you experience these symptoms lasting more than 3-4 days, consult your doctor.

• Monitor the patterns of your bowel movements. If anything feels unusual or concerning, whether it's the frequency or the consistency of your stool, make an appointment with your doctor.
• These symptoms aren't necessarily an indication of colon cancer. Irritable bowel syndrome and other conditions can cause similar symptoms.

Be aware of abdominal pain and bloating. These symptoms often accompany discomfort related to changes in bowel habits. If you experience abdominal pain and bloating with no clear cause, it's time to visit a doctor.

• You may also experience pelvic pain.
• As mentioned earlier, these symptoms can be linked to other conditions, so they don't automatically point to colon cancer. However, it’s best to get checked by your doctor.

Watch for changes in your weight or appetite. Colon cancer patients often lose their appetite and may experience unexplained weight loss. If you find that you're not finishing meals or craving foods you once loved, colon cancer could be the cause. Pay attention to any weight changes, especially if you’re losing weight consistently without intentionally trying to do so.

• It’s normal for weight to fluctuate occasionally. However, if you lose 5 kg or more within 6 months without any apparent reason, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

Be aware of unusual fatigue. This is a common symptom in many types of cancer, including colon cancer. If you experience persistent tiredness and weakness alongside other colon cancer symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately.

• Take note if the fatigue or exhaustion doesn’t improve despite resting.

Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms of colorectal cancer. If you notice any symptoms of colorectal cancer, make an appointment for an immediate consultation. The doctor can perform tests to check for cancer signs or rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

• Other conditions with symptoms similar to colorectal cancer include gastrointestinal infections, irritable bowel syndrome, and hemorrhoids.

Discuss your health history and risk factors with your doctor. Inform your doctor about your risk factors to help determine if you might have colorectal cancer. Age is the primary risk factor, as most colorectal cancer patients are over 50. However, there are other contributing factors. These include:

• Being of African American descent. African Americans have a higher risk of colorectal cancer compared to other racial groups.
• Having a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
• Having genetic syndromes like familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome that increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
• Leading a sedentary lifestyle. Regular exercise may help reduce this risk.
• Having a diet low in fiber and high in fats. Switching to a diet with more fruits and vegetables and less meat and fat can lower your risk.
• Having diabetes or being obese.
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Undergo regular screening if recommended by your doctor. The best way to prevent or detect colorectal cancer early is through routine screenings after age 50. These tests can help detect tumors or pre-cancerous growths. Your doctor will perform one or more of the following procedures to check for colorectal cancer:

• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT), which checks for blood in your stool.
• Fecal DNA test, which looks for genetic cancer markers in your stool. This test can identify pre-cancerous tumors, helping in early detection or prevention.
• Sigmoidoscopy, which uses a lighted device called a sigmoidoscope to examine the rectum and lower colon for polyps or tumors.
• Colonoscopy, where a doctor uses a colonoscope to examine the entire colon for cancer or pre-cancerous growths, taking biopsies if needed.
• Virtual colonoscopy or double contrast barium enema (DCBE), a form of X-ray imaging to detect polyps and tumors in the colon.

Talk to your doctor about treatment options if diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be frightening and overwhelming. Fortunately, there are many treatment options to combat cancer and manage symptoms. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of different treatment methods.

• The right treatment depends on your overall health and the stage or spread of cancer cells. For example, if the cancer is small and in its early stages, surgery during a colonoscopy may be sufficient to remove it.
• For more advanced colorectal cancer, additional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery to remove part of the colon may be necessary.
• If you are emotionally distressed, your doctor may refer you to mental health specialists or support groups to assist cancer patients and their families. Don't hesitate to turn to loved ones for support.

• Scientific evidence shows that regular colorectal cancer screening (starting at age 50) helps reduce colorectal cancer mortality rates. Discuss with your doctor which tests are best suited for you.
• The majority of colorectal cancers begin as polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. These growths can develop into cancer over a long period of time.
• If you're at risk of developing colorectal cancer, consult with your doctor about steps you can take to lower your risk. In addition to screenings, you may be advised to make lifestyle changes such as eating healthier, being more active, and avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption.