Colon cancer can be described as cancer of the large intestine (colon) i.e. the lower part of the digestive system. Initially, the cancer is in the form of small, benign or non-cancerous clumps of adenomatous polyps’ cells, in the glands covering the inner wall of the colon. At this point of time, there will be hardly a few symptoms of colon cancer. Even the few symptoms that occur are usually discarded as some abdominal problem.
As the clumps remain untreated for a considerable period of time, the growth begins to enlarge. This leads to degeneration of the cells, which then become adenocarcinomas. The best way to detect colon cancer, before it exceeds the ‘benign clumps’ stage, is to regularly undertake screening tests. In case you notice even a few of the following symptoms, go ahead and have the screening done. Remember, ‘prevention is better than cure’.
Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer
- Abdominal pain, especially with bowel movement
- Bloating of the stomach
- Change in the consistency of stool, for more than a couple of weeks
- Change in bowel habits
- Continual gas
- Feeling of bowel not emptying completely
- Nausea and vomiting
- Persistent cramps
- Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
- Regular diarrhea or constipation
- Shortness of breath
- Inexplicable weight loss
- Weakness or fatigue
