Recognising the early symptoms of colon cancer helps ensure timely treatment and enhances outcomes. This cancer can be referred to as bowel cancer or colorectal cancer based on the affected part of the colon. While it may not show obvious signs at an early stage, it can be developing faster than imagined. Let us discuss it further here.
What Is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer refers to the uncontrolled cancer cell growth in the large intestine (also called the colon or rectum). The tumour cells start growing in the small intestines and later transform into polyps, attaching to the inner lining of the bowel. These polyps then gradually trigger colon cancer symptoms.
How Does Colon Cancer Develop in the Body?
Initially, the colorectal cancer symptoms go unnoticed but are later discovered as the tumour grows. They usually appear as abnormal cell growth in the colon lining. It develops in stages, this way…
- Firstly, benign polyps form
- It gradually shapes into genetic mutations, further transforming into cancerous cells
- This grows deeper into the colon layers
- At advanced stages, it spreads to closer lymph nodes and organs too
The tumour cells start interfering with bowel activities and worsen symptoms as their severity levels rise.
NOTICE: Colon cancer does not occur overnight. It develops over the years and is overlooked for screening because the symptoms are very similar to nominal digestive discomfort at first.
Difference between Colon Cancer and Rectal Cancer
The key differences between colon cancer and rectal cancer can be briefly discovered through this table.
| Feature | Colon Cancer | Rectal Cancer |
| Where it affects? | Large intestine | Rectum, the end part of the digestive tract |
| Common symptoms | Abdominal pain or bowel habit changes | Urgency or rectal bleeding |
| Treatment Focus | Surgery and chemotherapy | Radiation therapy |
| How it is diagnosed? | Colonoscopy | Colonoscopy/proctoscopy |
| Surgical Complexity | Moderate | Complex due to location |
Early Symptoms of Colon Cancer
Catching the early signs of colon cancer helps with early diagnosis and treatment. Look for this:
- Narrow stools
- Bloody stools
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal discomfort
- Changes in bowel habits lasting longer than usual
- You don’t feel an empty bowel after passing stools
- Feeling constantly fatigued
It is easy to assume these symptoms as digestive upset or vice versa. They shall appear and settle down on their own. However, if it persists for a few weeks, then seek medical help.
Advanced Symptoms of Colon Cancer
Advanced bowel cancer symptoms show up as the disease progresses to the severe stage, such as:
- Weakness
- Anaemia
- Persistent bloating
- Inexplicable weight loss
- Ongoing rectal bleeding
- Severe fatigue
When cancer spreads to other organs, patients could experience breathing difficulties or liver-related complications.
TIP: If you notice mild symptoms and they don’t settle down by themselves after a few days, see your doctor soon. Persistent digestive changes should be addressed right away.
How Symptoms Change with Cancer Stages?
The symptoms of colon cancer vary according to the suffering level, as discussed below.
Stage 0–1: Minimal or No Symptoms
The stage 1 colon cancer symptoms often go unnoticed because they are absent. Most affected individuals feel bloated occasionally, experience mild irregularities with bowel movements, or encounter abdominal discomfort. This makes screening essential.
Stage 2–3: Noticeable Digestive Changes
At this stage, the symptoms become clearer and easily detected in screenings because the tumour may start affecting bowel functions more intensely. Most patients encounter severe fatigue, worsening bowel habit changes, abdominal cramps, and blood visible in stools.
Stage 4: Systemic and Severe Symptoms
These advanced-stage symptoms spread beyond the colon, further affecting the nearby and distant organs. The critical symptoms include severe weakness/fatigue, persistent pain, shortness of breath, major weight loss, or jaundice symptoms (as per the impact on the liver).
When should you see a doctor?
“When should I see the doctor for colorectal conditions?” is a common question. The simplest answer is to consult your physician for persistent bowel/digestive changes that start interfering with your routine.
Here are some instances when prompt medical consultation is required:
- Unusual fatigue
- Blood in stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Consistent bowel habit changes
- Abdominal pain or discomfort lasts longer than usual
WARNING! The Internet is a great place to explore, but it’s not ideal to always be followed. Such symptoms may outline other health issues or may be temporary due to lifestyle changes. Don’t self-diagnose or use colon-cancer medicines without medical guidance.
At times, certain digestive tract issues may overlap with colorectal symptoms, which creates confusion.
Are colon cancer symptoms different in men and women?
Colon cancer symptoms are mostly similar for men and women, but appear differently, so they are assumed to be distinct.
Symptoms in Men
The common signs of colon cancer in men can be:
- Fatigue
- Abdominal cramps
- Blood in stools
- Persistent bowel habit changes
Men usually delay medical consultation, assuming these changes are normal.
Symptoms in Women
Here are the possible signs of colon cancer in women:
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Abdominal discomfort
- Digestive changes mistaken for hormonal concerns
Women likely confuse colorectal symptoms with menstrual or gynaecological conditions, which leads to delayed diagnosis.
When Should Colon Cancer Screening Begin?
Due to rising cases in younger adults, the colorectal screening age for average-risk individuals has shifted from 50 to 45. As the number of cases rises, late diagnosis makes the cancer reach “hard-to-treat” stages. [Source] Those with a family history of colorectal cancer may opt for early screening (approximately 10 years earlier than the suggested age). Some individuals with a history of inflammatory bowel disease, genetic colon syndrome, or colon polyps in the past should see the physician at specified intervals. The common screening options include:
- Colonoscopy (mostly performed every 10 years)
- FIT (Stool-based tests done annually)
- Cologuard (every 3 years)
Medication for Colon Cancer
After a confirmed diagnosis by the healthcare provider, the patient shall be advised of an oral treatment. The prescription and treatment plan are totally personalised according to the stage of suffering, pace of cancer spread, and overall health of the patient. These are the commonly advised colon cancer medications indicated across the Globe:
Note: None of the aforementioned cancer drugs should be used without medical guidance. Ensure consulting an oncology specialist for a tailored treatment plan first.
FAQs on Symptoms of Colon Cancer
What are the early signs of bowel cancer?
The most common early symptoms of colorectal cancer include changes in bowel habits, blood discharge in stools, frequent abdominal discomfort, and unexplained fatigue.
Can colon cancer develop without any symptoms?
Yes, initial-phase colon cancer can develop without any noticeable symptoms.
Is blood in stool always a sign of colon cancer?
No, it need not necessarily indicate colon cancer always. Blood in stools can be visible due to other health concerns like fissures, haemorrhoids, or infection. Consult your physician as soon as you notice it.
How long can colon cancer go unnoticed?
Colon cancer mostly goes unnoticed because of the similarities and is mistakenly assumed to be digestive upset. It may develop for years before a confirmed diagnosis.
Can young adults get colon cancer?
Yes, it can affect anyone. Mostly, older adults are diagnosed with colon cancer, but cases in young adults are also reported.
Summary
Understanding the early signs or symptoms of colon cancer helps affected individuals access medical help promptly. Look for signs like sudden bowel changes, bloody stools, unusual abdominal pain, or fatigue. See the physician if these symptoms persist despite home remedies/dietary changes/lifestyle adjustments. Availing medical attention promptly with regular monitoring at intervals prevents major complications.
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