Colorectal cancer can cause a number of disruptions in an individual's gastrointestinal tract. When the term bowel is used, it describes both the large intestine (also known as the colon) and the small intestines. Colorectal cancer can occur in either of the intestines, but it is more often found in the large intestine. Estimates by the National Cancer Institute state that last year, there were over 100,000 diagnoses of cancer in the large intestine while there are about 6,000 diagnoses of cancer in the small intestine. Due to their close proximity and similar compositions, the symptoms of each share some common characteristics.
Losing Weight
The National Cancer Institute says that unexplained and unexpected weight loss may also be accounted for by colorectal cancer. The cancer attacks intestinal tissue and diverts additional digestion resources, thereby disrupting the body's ability to properly digest food and process essential nutrients. The leads to a nutrient deficiency and brings about weight loss.
Pain
Colorectal cancer commonly manifests itself in the form of pain in the lower core or abdominal area. Cancer cells multiply and attack the tissue in the intestines which brings about pain in the gastrointestinal tract. In addition to pain, cancer in the small intestine can produce polyps which can be found by your doctor, as stated by the National Library of Medicine's online resource, Medline Plus. Colorectal cancer also sometimes produces painful gas and cramps.
Blood in the Stool
One of the more telling symptoms of colorectal cancer is the presence of blood after a bowel movement. This is caused by cancerous cells attacking the tissue of the intestines and causing bleeding. According to the National Cancer Institute, blood that comes that stems from colorectal cancer can be between bright red or very dark.
Other Symptoms
There are a number of other symptoms that can accompany colorectal cancer, says the National Cancer Institute. Other symptoms of cancer within the colon may include diarrhea or constipation, nausea, changes in the way you have a bowel movement. You may also feel these symptoms when the cancer is in the small intestine, but they could also be accompanied by fatigue or weakness as your body is unable to take in required nutrients.
