Colon cancer can develop due to the abnormal growth of cancerous cells within the lining of the large intestine, or colon. In the United States, the National Cancer Institute estimates that more than 100,000 people were diagnosed with colon cancer in 2009. Though the exact cause of colon cancer is unclear, risk factors for this condition include smoking, a high-fat diet or a preexisting medical condition, such as ulcerative colitis. Speak with your doctor if you develop any of the symptoms associated with colon cancer.
Intestinal Pain
If you have colon cancer, you can develop pain within your stomach, abdomen or intestine. This type of pain is typically persistent and can cause aching or cramping within this region of your body. Intestinal pain due to colon cancer can also cause additional symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting.
Constipation or Diarrhea
Cancerous cell growth within your large intestine can cause irritation and inflammation to develop in this tissue. If this occurs, it can interfere with your colon's ability to normally process ingested foods. Intestinal irritation can make it difficult for you to have a bowel movement (constipation) or it can cause you to excrete loose, watery stools (diarrhea). Such symptoms can also be accompanied by abdominal bloating or pain.
Stool Changes
Unregulated cancerous cell growth within your colon can narrow this digestive passageway. If this occurs, you can develop abnormally narrow or thin stools. Your stools may also appear abnormally red or dark due to the presence of blood.
Weight Loss
Abnormal, significant or unexplained weight loss can occur due to the presence of cancer within your colon. Cancerous cell growth in the large intestine can disrupt the body's ability to absorb necessary nutrients from the food that you ingest. Additional symptoms, such as nausea, diarrhea or constipation, may decrease your normal appetite. These effects of colon cancer can cause you to lose weight.
Fatigue
If you have colon cancer, you can feel constantly tired or fatigued, the Kentucky Department for Public Health explains. Your cells obtain energy from the food that you ingest. If your body is unable to digest this food properly due to colon cancer, your cells will not have enough energy to sustain your normal daily activities. This can cause symptoms of chronic fatigue, which can significantly interfere with your ability to complete tasks associated with work or school responsibilities.
