Symptoms of bowel cancer vary depending on the type and location of the cancer. Common symptoms include blood in the stool, weight loss, stomach pain, changes in bowel movements, and anemia. Seek medical help if any of these symptoms are noticed.
The most common symptoms of bowel cancer depend on the type of cancer and where it is found. There are generalized bowel cancer symptoms that apply to both large bowel and small bowel cancer, and there are symptoms that are specific to the type. You should seek immediate medical help whenever bowel cancer symptoms are noticed.
Blood in the stool is one of the most common symptoms of bowel cancer. Bright red blood usually indicates that the problem is in the lower colon or rectal area. Dark blood or tarry colored stools occur when the problem is higher in the intestines and more processed before it leaves the body. Bloody stools are also an indicator of other diseases including hemorrhoids and peptic ulcers; however, only a doctor can determine whether it’s a symptom of bowel cancer or a less serious problem.
Effortless weight loss is another symptom of cancer, especially when accompanied by extreme tiredness or feelings of weakness. Weight loss caused by cancer occurs without exercise, dietary changes, or other factors. It can also be accompanied by vomiting or nausea.
Stomach discomfort or pain is sometimes seen in patients with bowel cancer. The location of the pain depends on the location of the tumor. There may also be an abdominal lump, although if the tumor is far enough in the intestine, the lump will not be detectable on physical exam.
Tumors that grow large enough in the intestines sometimes interfere with bowel movements. Stool that becomes narrow in diameter or flat on one side can change shape to pass the tumor. Diarrhea or constipation that lasts longer than two to three weeks can also be a symptom of cancer as the tumor grows and blocks the normal passage of stool.
Secondary bowel cancer symptoms can also relate to tumors. A tumor in the large intestine can cause long-term slow blood loss without causing other symptoms. This blood loss leads to anemia and subsequent symptoms of dizziness and shortness of breath. Advanced anemia can cause rapid or irregular heartbeats.
All symptoms can be experienced with all types of cancer; however, some symptoms are more common with the specified tumors. Right colon cancer typically causes anemia, nausea, and vomiting before the tumor grows large enough to change the shape of the intestine or cause constipation. Left colon cancer causes intestinal obstruction more quickly, which subsequently causes stomach cramps, bloating of the abdomen, and tight stools.
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