Colon cancer is something that can affect people of all ages, and should be addressed as soon as possible. While the symptoms can be awkward they are very important to pay attention to and should never go overlooked.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer here in the United States and second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. It is not something to joke about. Do not be nervous about getting screened for this, when it comes to your life taking a big leap is sometimes necessary.
It is something that has no clear cut cause and occurs when healthy cells in the colon develop errors in their DNA. When cell DNA is damaged and has become cancerous the cells still continue to divide. They divide regardless of whether new cells are needed or not. These cells accumulate causing tumors.
The following symptoms are some you should never ignore as they are clear indicators that you may have colorectal cancer:
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
If you are eating the correct amount and still for some reason are losing a lot of weight it can be caused by this kind of cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, this is because the disease changes the way that your body uses food, it prevents you from being able to absorb all of the proper nutrients.
2. Narrow Stool
If you notice a significant change in your stool this can be cause for alarm. If you are usually producing thinner stools and out of nowhere notice a change it can be a possible indicator for a tumor in the colon. Be aware of your behind.
3. The Unproductive Urge to Have a Bowel Movement
You feel like you need to have a bowel movement and yet for some reason cannot, constipation. This can be a sign of a possible tumor in your rectum. It will most likely require immediate medical attention. Now, keep in mind that if you usually do not have bowel movements often you may be subject to diarrhea.
Whether you are experiencing a dull or sharp pain can depend on what exactly is going on inside your body. Pain is often, however, a sign that something is having an issue passing through. A tumor can and sometimes will cause a blockage, or tear that will result in pain. Along with this, you may experience any of the following vomiting, abdominal distention, and nausea.
When colon cancer tumors bleed it causes an iron loss in your body. Many people dealing with this do not know that they are losing blood, although, a routine test will reveal anemia.
Rectal bleeding is most likely the most common warning sign when it comes to this kind of cancer. If you notice blood on your toilet paper, mixed in with your stool, or in the toilet bowl, you should tell your doctor immediately. The blood can range in a wide variety of colors some being much brighter than others. It is important to look at your stool. If you notice blood do not ignore it. Take action as soon as possible.
If you become overly weak and cannot function as you did before you should consider this as a possible reason why, especially when partnered with the things above. Most people with colon cancer do not experience any symptoms in the early stages of this disease.
If you have a family history of this disease then I suggest you take the time to get tested now do not wait until you are older when your options are far and few. If you notice any of the things above do not hesitate to see someone and verify whether you are dealing with colon cancer or not. For a little more information on colon cancer please take the time to watch the video below.