Over 100,000 people in the United States are estimated to be diagnosed with colon cancer in 2010, according to medical experts at the National Cancer Institute. This form of cancer develops along the intestine or colon--a portion of the digestive tract. Initially, patients with colon cancer may not exhibit symptoms. As the cancer progresses, affected patients can develop advanced symptoms of colon cancer.
Persistent Bowel Movement Changes
Patients with advanced colon cancer can experience persistent bowel movement problems as a symptom of this disease, the American Cancer Society notes. Cancerous cell growth can irritate the lining of the colon, leading to frequent bowel movement urges that yield runny stools--a symptom called diarrhea. Alternatively, cancerous cells may clump together and block the normal passage of food through the digestive tract. When this occurs, patients with colon cancer can develop constipation as an advanced symptom of this disease. Patients with colon cancer can experience alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation, which can be uncomfortable and may contribute to a decrease in appetite. Additionally, inflammation along the colon due to cancer cell growth can narrow this region of the digestive tract. As a result, patients with colon cancer may notice that their stools appear unusually thin or narrow. Patients who experience bowel movement changes that last for more than a few days should seek further evaluation and care from a medical professional.
Rectal Bleeding
Cancer cells can damage the interior lining of the colon. When this occurs, patients with colon cancer can experience rectal bleeding or blood within their stools as an advanced symptom of this disease, explains MayoClinic.com. The stools can appear abnormally dark or red due to the presence of blood. Patients who experience rectal bleeding or notice blood within their stools should contact a doctor immediately as these advanced symptoms of colon cancer can also be signs of alternate medical problems, such as internal bleeding or ulcers.
Stomach Discomfort
Patients with advanced colon cancer can experience severe stomach discomfort due to this disease. Stomach upset symptoms can include abdominal cramping, bloating or pain. Patients who exhibit sudden or severe abdominal discomfort should seek medical care immediately.
Severe Weakness or Fatigue
Severe weakness or fatigue may arise as advanced symptoms of colon cancer in certain patients, warns the Merck Manual, an online medical encyclopedia for health care professionals. These symptoms may occur due to anemia caused by blood loss from rectal bleeding. Affected patients can have difficulty remaining alert and focused throughout the day or may be unable to complete their normal daily tasks.
