Colon cancer is a cancer that appears in the large intestine, which is in the lower part of the digestive system, before the tract ends. Patients typically have a genetic disposition to colon cancer; those with a family history of the disease are encouraged to get regular screening for the condition. In addition to hereditary factors, there are some common early symptoms of colon cancer that should be considered to catch the disease in its early stages.
Bowel Movement Changes
Drastic changes in bowel movements can signal the early signs of colon cancer. When stools are bloody or blood accompanies a bowel movement, that could indicate the presence of cancer. Doctors at Merck report that bleeding during bowel movements is the most common early symptom of colon cancer, even in people with a history of hemorrhoids. Diarrhea and constipation that is not related to any other condition or change in diet is an early symptom of the disease. Any changes in the consistency of bowel movements also should be considered. In addition, Mayo Clinic doctors report that a feeling that the bowels never empty is an early signal and should be checked for the presence of cancer cells.
Pain
Pain and abdominal discomfort and persistent stomachaches could signal early symptoms of colon cancer. Cramps and gas not associated with diet changes often are present in the early stages of the disease. Sitting often becomes painful in the early stages of colon cancer because of all the disruption in bowel activity.
Weakness
Many people with early symptoms of colon cancer go undiagnosed because they don't recognize the cancer signals. Weakness and fatigue can be caused by a variety of reasons, including colon cancer. Unexplained weight loss exacerbates the weakness and is itself a symptom of colon cancer. Internal bleeding can be occurring while a bowel becomes obstructed, causing irregular bowel movements that tire out the patient easily.
Polyps
Colon cancer typically begins as small polyps in the colon that are detected with diagnostic tests such as the colonoscopy. Regular screening and removal of polyps can prevent colon cancer and the accompanying symptoms. While many people wait until they have other recognizable symptoms of colon cancer before they go in for an uncomfortable colonosocopy, medical professionals recommend regular screenings for polyps for everyone over the age of 50.
