Colon Cancer Signs and Symptoms

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  • Post last modified:September 29, 2023
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When is colon cancer a symptom? It’s a disease in which cancer has spread to the muscular layer of the submucosa and mucosa of the colon. It doesn’t have spread to nearby tissues and organs, but it has reached distant parts of the body. Here are some of the signs and symptoms that may be a sign of colon cancer. It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect you have these symptoms.

Symptoms

While no two cases are the same, colorectal cancer is a common condition that affects the colon and rectum. Adenocarcinoma, the most common type of bowel cancer, begins in the cells that line the walls of the colon and rectum. Early symptoms of colorectal cancer may not be noticeable to the patient, and they can vary widely among patients. There is no known cause for colorectal cancer, but it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you might have the condition.

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If you notice any of these symptoms, visit your doctor immediately. The tumor in the colon may block the passage of stools and cause pain and bloating. It may also interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food, causing symptoms such as cramping and abdominal pain. If left untreated, colorectal cancer can even damage the digestive system, causing life-threatening complications. In order to detect colorectal cancer, a patient must visit a healthcare professional for a colonoscopy.

colon cancer, colorectal cancer

Risk factors

There are several risk factors for colon cancer, but you need to be aware of them to avoid getting the disease. Smoking and drinking alcohol can increase the risk, and people with a family history of colon cancer are at an increased risk. Eating red meat can also increase the risk, though eating lean, unprocessed red meat has been linked to less risk. Some symptoms of colon cancer include abdominal pain, blood in the stool, weight loss, and diarrhea. Your doctor may recommend that you undergo a colonoscopy to confirm the symptoms.

Age is another risk factor for colorectal cancer. People with sporadic CRC are generally younger than those with advanced disease. However, if you have a family history of the disease, you should start screening before age 45. You should also inform close family members about your family history of colorectal cancer so that your doctor will know if there are any changes in your genetic makeup.

Screening tests

If you have any of these signs or symptoms, you should schedule a screening test. Colon cancer screening can be a lifesaving procedure. By getting the screening annually, you can cut your risk of dying from the disease by up to 30%. However, there are risks involved. These tests may result in a small amount of blood in your bowel movements or more severe bleeding. A doctor may also puncture your colon or rectum to perform the test.

While some people who are at average risk for colorectal cancer may receive early screening, others may require annual or bi-annual visits to a doctor. Symptoms can include adenomatous polyps and colon polyps. You can choose a screening test that best fits your lifestyle and risk factors. Depending on your personal health history, your doctor may recommend that you have a screening every five years or more.

Treatment

Although the most common colorectal cancer symptoms and signs are not specific, they can be indicative of this disease. Some patients experience bleeding in the bowels or abdominal pain, and some experience blood in their stools. These are early indicators that you should see a doctor. If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, you should schedule a colonoscopy. Also, if you notice blood in your stools, consult with your doctor.

Intestinal pain is a common colorectal cancer symptom, but this problem can also occur due to another condition, such as a hemorrhoid or a spastic colon. Changes in bowel habits are also common symptoms of colorectal cancer. It can be hard to tell whether your symptoms are from colorectal cancer because they can easily be mistaken for IBS.