Harvard trained Gastroenterologist REVEALS 8 signs of Colon Cancer one should not ignore

Colon cancer, which is also known as rectal cancer, or colorectal cancer, is a malignant growth of cells from the colon or rectum. It occurs because of uncontrolled growth of colon cells, that can invade/spread to other parts of the body. While not uncommon, the cancer can go undetected for a long time, however, the detection of some warning signs enables patients to receive medical care at an early stage. Saurabh Sethi, a Harvard trained Gastroenterologist, reveals these 8 warning signs one must watch out for…

The most frequent symptom of colon cancer appears when patients notice blood in their stool. The presence of blood in your stool can manifest as either bright red or dark tar-like substances, which stem from internal bleeding in your colon. Medical evaluation becomes necessary whenever you notice blood in your stool, because hemorrhoids and other less severe conditions also produce bleeding. Medical tests performed early will determine the source of the issue, while eliminating cancer and other potential conditions. Any blood-related changes during bowel movements require immediate medical evaluation because they indicate a serious condition. Untreated blood loss results in anemia, which requires immediate medical intervention.

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Any bowel habit changes that persist beyond three days require your immediate medical attention. The symptoms of constipation and diarrhea and thinning of stool shape, are all indicators of possible colon cancer. The persistent changes in your bowel movements could indicate colon cancer or another digestive problem. The identification of your symptoms requires medical consultation to achieve proper diagnosis at an early stage. These symptoms require medical attention because ignoring them, will extend the time needed for treatment and produce negative effects on your health.

The presence of persistent or recurring abdominal pain, cramps and bloating in the stomach region indicates possible colon cancer among other health issues. The pain exists at different levels of intensity, and does not correlate with eating or bowel movements. The presence of tumors that compress the colon or surrounding organs, leads to this discomfort so medical evaluation becomes necessary when abdominal pain persists or remains unexplained. Medical tests performed early will help doctors detect cancer, while treating other possible causes including infections and inflammation.

Sudden unexplained weight loss serves as a warning indicator for potential health issues. The development of colon cancer leads to weight loss through three mechanisms, which include decreased appetite, impaired nutrient absorption and elevated body energy consumption. The weight loss occurs even though you maintain your regular eating habits. A person who loses weight unexpectedly needs to visit their doctor because this symptom points to a dangerous medical issue that requires prompt diagnosis.
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Colon cancer may cause persistent tiredness and weakness when there are no apparent reasons for these symptoms. The cancer together with anemia caused by slow blood loss will make you feel exhausted. The fatigue experienced by cancer patients remains unchanged even after getting sufficient rest. Medical consultation is required for patients who experience ongoing fatigue, which interferes with their daily activities. The treatment of anemia together with cancer will enhance both your energy levels and your overall quality of life.

The presence of low iron levels which causes anemia, serves as a concealed indicator of colon cancer particularly among postmenopausal women and men. The symptoms of anemia include pale skin together with dizziness and breathing difficulties. The body loses iron through slow digestive tract bleeding, which results in this condition. Blood test results showing low iron without an apparent reason should lead doctors to perform a colonoscopy to check for cancer. The correct identification and treatment of bleeding sources, remains essential for both patient health recovery and well-being.See more: How magnesium deficiency affects health in mysterious ways

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Some colon cancer patients experience the sensation that their bowel is not fully empty after using the bathroom. The feeling of being blocked or full inside the colon, indicates that a tumor has formed to narrow the colon passage. A persistent need to strain during bowel movements or the feeling of incomplete defecation requires medical evaluation. Medical professionals should examine patients who experience these symptoms because early detection prevents bowel obstruction from developing. Also See: Five common signs of colon cancer that are often ignored

Your risk of developing colon cancer becomes higher when you have a parent or sibling, who has experienced colon cancer. The presence of genetic factors in your family history leads to an increased chance of developing colon cancer before age 50. Inform your doctor about family cancer history because you should start screening tests at an earlier age or undergo them more frequently. Early detection of cancer becomes possible through preventive screening, which also enables the removal of precancerous growths during colonoscopy procedures.Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk, improve treatment outcomes, and potentially save your life through timely intervention and personalized screening strategies.

Colon cancer is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and screening tests. Key diagnostic tools include colonoscopy, which allows direct visualization and biopsy of suspicious areas, stool tests to detect hidden blood, and imaging scans like CT colonography to identify tumors. Early detection is vital, as it improves treatment outcomes and can prevent the cancer from spreading to other organs.

Do not ignore these symptoms