Symptoms of colon cancer vary from patient to patient and depend on the type and location of the tumor. Some patients experience no symptoms, while others experience changes in bowel movements, abdominal pain, and bloody stools. Blood in the stool and changes in bowel habits can indicate colon cancer, and early diagnosis can increase the chances of successful treatment.
Symptoms of colon cancer can vary significantly from patient to patient and depend on the type and location of the tumor. Some patients experience few or no symptoms, and the cancer is discovered only through a routine colonoscopy. Others experience changes in bowel movements, abdominal pain, bloody stools, and other physical symptoms. Colon cancer can be benign, meaning it’s not cancerous, or malignant, meaning it’s cancerous. A biopsy of the tumor is usually the only way to determine what type it is.
Blood in the stool can indicate the presence of colon cancer, although the presence of blood in the stool can indicate other conditions as well. Bleeding from hemorrhoids or small rectal tears is usually bright red, while bleeding from colon cancer is usually darker and may look like coffee grounds. Some foods and medications can mimic the appearance of blood in stool, including iron supplements, beets, and blueberries. Those who suspect they have bloody stools should contact a doctor right away to determine the underlying cause.
The presence of colon cancer can cause changes in bowel habits. In some, it can cause loose stools or bouts of diarrhea. In others, it can cause constipation and difficult-to-pass bowel movements. Urge incontinence (accidental bowel movements) or anal discharge may also occur.
Abdominal pain is also a possible symptom of colon cancer, but like blood in the stool, it has many other potential causes. Colon cancers usually cause pain on the left side of the abdomen. Appendicitis, diverticulitis and even heartburn can also cause pain in this area. The pain may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unexplained weight loss. Abdominal pain, especially on the left side, should be evaluated by a doctor.
The location of a tumor can also influence symptoms. A tumor in the left side of the colon is more likely to cause bowel obstruction, which can lead to bloody stools, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits. The right side of the colon has more space, allowing a colon tumor to grow larger. When the tumor grows too large, it can cut off the blood supply and lead to an iron deficiency, which is called anemia. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, shortness of breath, and weakness.
Colon cancer usually doesn’t cause symptoms until it reaches a certain stage. Cancers are more common in the elderly, so doctors recommend routine colonoscopies starting in the age of 50 for those without a history of colon problems. Early diagnosis of the tumor can increase the chances of successful treatment.
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