Bowel or colorectal cancer is an insidious disease that reveals its true colors only at an advanced stage. The question that arises then, is: Are there any indirect symptoms that one should keep an eye on for a possible clue, or to prevent development of any signs or symptoms of serious illness? With the help of appropriate screening tests that may include physical examination--whether digital or instrumental using state-of-the-art medical devices such as sigmoidoscopes--bowel or colorectal cancer specialists can visualize and document telltale symptoms. It's imperative, therefore, to watch out for any unusual signs or symptoms that directly or indirectly affect your bowel behavior. Even if you lack specific symptoms but have a family history of bowel cancer or genetic risk, make sure this is monitored regularly.
Have Your Bowel Habits Changed Lately?
The United States National Cancer Institute advises that you should watch out for any diarrhea, constipation or narrowing of your stool--especially if it persists for many days. However, according to information reviewed by the Harvard Medical School, there may be several reasons underlying a specific symptom. Constipation can be caused by a fiber-deficient diet, certain prescription medications, endocrine diseases, diabetic neuropathy or a damaged spinal cord. Similarly, diarrhea has been linked to other ailments such as viral gastroenteritis, Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, food poisoning, lactose intolerance, Escherichia coli infection, antibiotics, thyroid disorders and diabetic neuropathy. So it's essential to get checked with your physician for prompt and accurate diagnosis.
Did You Notice Blood in Your Stool?
Blood in your stool need not always be blood red; even a dark, tarry appearance can betray something more sinister within. In fact, a recent bleed may look blood red rather than dark red. However, there may be several reasons underlying blood in the stool, but most of them relate to the digestive tract. Other ailments including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, peptic ulcer, gastritis, esophagitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or stomach cancer may show similar symptoms of bleeding. You should heed warning signals and approach a specialist via your family physician to undergo specific screening tests.
Abdominal Pain
Watch for any flatulence, abdominal discomfort, bloating or cramps. Any persistent symptoms must be checked by your physician. If you have multiple symptoms of pain, fatigue, bleeding--whether or not it's accompanied by weight loss--see your doctor immediately.
