Bowel cancer: THIS symptom combination is the first and most noticeable sign

Bowel cancer develops inside the large bowel, made up of the colon and rectum. Depending on where the cancer starts, bowel cancer is sometimes called colon or rectal cancer. It is considered one of the most common cancers worldwide. Early cases often have no symptoms, which is why doctors recommend screenings for those who are at high risk or over the age of 50.

Even when symptoms appear, they are likely to vary from case to case and the signs could be non-specific.

However, it is essential to timely diagnose the disease for effective treatment. This is why it is important to be aware and alert for any signs and symptoms that may crop up, especially if you are at a higher risk of developing the disease. According to health experts, there is one symptom combination that could help you spot bowel cancer promptly. Consult a doctor if you notice any symptoms.

According to doctors, rectal bleeding is many times the first and most noticeable sign of bowel cancer.

The combination of rectal bleeding and a change in bowel habit is believed to be a common sign of bowel cancer. Apart from this combination, rectal bleeding in the absence of peri-anal symptoms could also be an indication of bowel cancer. Peri-anal symptoms refer to problems affecting the area around the anus, such as itching and pain.

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Some persistent changes in bowel habits to be aware of include:

-Diarrhea

-Constipation

-Changes in consistency of stool

-Changes in frequency to use the loo

-Blood in your stool

Apart from the above mentioned common signs, other symptoms of bowel cancer include:

-Persistent abdominal discomfort like cramps, gas, or pain

-Feeling of incomplete evacuation of the bowel

-Fatigue

-Unexplained weight loss

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It is important to note that the above mentioned symptoms may not be necessarily caused by cancer and could be due to other, less serious conditions. However, it is still important to not ignore these signs and discuss them with your doctor.

The symptoms should be taken more seriously especially in the case of elders or if the symptoms continue to persist despite simple treatments. There are different treatments available depending on the location of the cancer and how far it has spread.