What Are The Symptoms Of Colon Cancer?
The symptoms of colon cancer are so nonspecific because most of the time they resemble many other ailments or diseases. For instance, change in bowel habits that result in diarrhea or constipation could be symptomatic of a whole host of other diseases like irritable bowel syndrome or Crohns Disease. Symptoms of colon cancer can include, but are not limited to, weakness, fatigue, blood in the stool, cramps and bloating. As mentioned above symptoms can also include changes in bowel habits and narrow stools can also be a symptom.
Also, it may take several years for symptoms to develop even when cancer is present. Actually, symptoms can differ depending on where the cancer is located. If the tumor is in the left area of the large intestine, which is narrower, obstructions or partial obstructions can occur. Bright red blood in the stool can be indicative of a tumor in the rectum or near the end of the left colon. Tumors occurring on the larger, right side of the colon may cause iron deficiency or anemia because blood is slowly being lost. The anemia would probably result in fatigue, weakness and shortness of breath.
But other diseases are known to mimic those very same symptoms; it is advised that if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or if you are over fifty you should have regular screenings to detect it early should it occur. Even though the symptoms are so nonspecific, if you notice any changes in bowel movement or bowel habit it would be wise to consult your doctor as soon as possible.
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