6 Early Warning Symptoms of Colon Cancer
How can you make sure you’re not a part of this disturbing trend? Be aware of the early warning signs of colon cancer, and be sure to consult a gastroenterologist as soon as you notice colon cancer symptoms. Here are some things to look out for:
1. Bleeding
Watch out for bright red rectal bleeding or dark, tarry stools, which could indicate the presence of blood.
2. Stomach pain
Look for persistent abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating.
3. Change in bowel habits
This could include constipation, diarrhea, a change in stool consistency, or narrowing of the stool.
4. Tenesmus
This is defined as feeling like you still have to “go” after you’ve already had a bowel movement or feeling like your bowel movement was incomplete.
5. Unexplained weight loss
Unintentional weight loss may be an early warning sign.
6. Fatigue/weakness
This could mean you have anemia from an iron deficiency.
Many people do not exhibit any symptoms in the early stages of colon cancer, which is why it is important to get screened after the age of 45, or sooner if you have a family history of colon cancer. It’s normal to experience the above symptoms occasionally, but when you notice a persistent change and they occur for more than a couple of weeks, it is time to make an appointment to see a gastroenterologist. Contact our expert team of local GI doctors at Adult Gastroenterology Associates.
