Common Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer
C olon cancer commences in the large intestine of the digestive tract. Often, it starts as small benign cellular clumps (polyps) inside the colon. Polyps may show no symptoms and if not diagnosed may result in colon cancer. Also known as colorectal cancer, colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related fatalities in the country. While the below-mentioned symptoms may indicate colon cancer, other disorders like inflammatory bowel disease or infection may also be the cause of these. Regular screening and being vigilant to prevent polyps from turning cancerous is crucial. Here are some common symptoms of colon cancer: Changes to bowel movements that lasts for several days Intestinal bleeding that reduces the number of healthy red blood cells Inability to empty the bowels Loss of appetite and sudden and drastic weight loss Feeling cramps in the rectum Pain in the pelvic region Rectal bleeding Tiredness and fatigue that persists even after resting Dark blood patches or fresh blood while passing stools Bloating or discomfort in the belly Stringy, thin, and long pencil stools Persisting discomfort in the abdominal region, such as pain, cramps, or gas Gasping or shortness of breath as the cancer starts draining energy from your body resulting in fatigue Identifying Symptoms In the early stages of colon cancer, there is a possibility that one feels no visible symptoms.