“Colon Cancer” refers to a specific type of cancer that develops in the cells bordering the large intestine (colon). The colon and rectum are sometimes grouped since they are both at the lowest part of the digestive tract and share many similar characteristics. Therefore, some researchers prefer the term “colorectal cancer,” which also includes the rectum. Colorectal cancer is generally not diagnosed until it reaches an advanced stage. Understanding that most polyps are not cancerous is important. Adenomas are the only forms that can develop into cancer. A polyp may not develop into cancer if it is removed during its growth.
The Top 5 Indicators of Colon Cancer are:
Blood in your stool
The most recognizable symptom of colon cancer is blood in the stool. The stool appears in a tarry and sticky form which is found to be bright red, purple, black or maroon. The reason that the blood enters and gets discarded through stool is that cancer is an abnormal tissue that flows easily in comparison to normal tissue.
It is not necessary that the blood in the stool stands as cancer. Several reasons cause blood in the stool and some of them are- bleeding haemorrhoids, stomach ulcers, colitis and colonic inflammation.
Using the washroom less or frequently
It is important to consult a doctor when you observe a change in your bowel habits. This change in stool can be seen as looser, narrower, stringier, more frequent, or much less frequent. If not stool, bacteria-carrying foods or germs may upset your stomach and change your gut health. In such instances, the problem can be food poisoning. Additionally, water and sewage from digestion get mixed and some diseases like giardia, an infection of the small intestine, can spread.
Unexpected weight loss
It is not necessary that following a normal diet will not harm your weight. Colon cancer can affect your weight even after consuming healthy and nutritious food. Sometimes, it also affects your eating habits and therefore leads to a loss of appetite. Furthermore, if it is not colon cancer, you should consult your doctor quickly and find out the reason behind the unexplained weight loss.
Abdominal Cramps
Stomach pain, distention, cramps or pain in the bowel region during digestion as well as the excretion process can be a symptom of colon cancer. These are frequent problems that can also be caused by several illnesses, such as gastrointestinal distress brought on by food, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis. It becomes important to see a doctor if the pain or cramps occur more often.
Rectal Bleeding
A colon or rectal cancer is identifiable when a bright red blood appears in the stool signifies the chances of colon cancer. On the other hand, haemorrhoids are another factor that leads to rectal bleeding. A person suffering from rectum bleeding suffers painful bowel movements that can be generally found in the toilet bowl water or toilet paper.
Constipation
Constipation is a situation where a person faces fewer bowel movements. In simple terms, a person should at least pass more than 3 bowel movements in a week. Therefore, in such circumstances, the person may suffer from colon cancer. Furthermore, changes in the stool process, such as the sensation that the stool has not completely passed or when there is no stool to pass but you believe you have had a bowel movement, should be considered.
Pelvic Pain
Patients with rectal or colon cancer rarely experience pelvic pain. If it does, it can be a sign that cancer has progressed to the pelvic region which causes discomfort.
