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Colorectal Cancer: What Are the Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore?
Published: Sep 15, 2023
Colorectal cancer is a common and potentially deadly disease that often develops without obvious symptoms. Knowing the warning signs could save your life.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
The most frequent symptoms of colorectal cancer include blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. Rectal bleeding or dark stools may indicate bleeding in the digestive tract. Persistent changes in bowel habits, like diarrhea or constipation, can also be a warning sign. Abdominal pain or cramping that doesn't go away could signal a growing tumor.
Less Common But Serious Signs
Some less common symptoms of colorectal cancer include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, which may indicate anemia from internal bleeding. Nausea, vomiting, or feeling that the bowel doesn't empty completely can occur if a tumor is causing a bowel obstruction. Unexplained fever or night sweats can sometimes be associated with colorectal cancer. While these symptoms can have other causes, it's important to get them checked out.
Risk Factors to Consider
Certain factors increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. These include being over 50, having a family history of colorectal cancer, smoking, heavy alcohol use, obesity, and lack of physical activity. Some medical conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or inherited syndromes also raise the risk. Knowing your risk factors can help determine when to start screening.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any persistent symptoms or notice blood in your stool, see your doctor promptly. Don't wait for symptoms to worsen or assume it's nothing serious. Early detection greatly improves outcomes for colorectal cancer. Your doctor can evaluate your symptoms and determine if further testing is needed. Regular colorectal cancer screening is also important, even without symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's the third most common cancer in the US, with about 150,000 new cases yearly.
For average risk, screening typically starts at age 45.
Healthy lifestyle choices and regular screening can help prevent many cases.
Usually not, but rectal bleeding should always be evaluated by a doctor.
When caught early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable and often curable.
Don't Ignore the Signs
While colorectal cancer symptoms can be subtle, paying attention to your body and reporting changes to your doctor could save your life.
References
- American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer. cancer.org
- National Cancer Institute. Colorectal Cancer Prevention (PDQ®)–Patient Version. cancer.gov
- Mayo Clinic. Colon Cancer. mayoclinic.org
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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