If you have recently discovered that you're at risk of developing cancer within the large intestine, or colon, then you may need to learn more about the symptoms of colon cancer, and which signs you should watch for when monitoring your health and wellness over time. This kind of cancer occurs within the lower part of your digestive system, whereas rectal cancer takes place within the last inches of the colon. When combined, both of these diseases are regarded as colorectal cancer.

Most of the time, people find that the symptoms of colon cancer start relatively small. In fact, the initial signs can simply be a series of small and benign clumps of cells or lumps that are known as adenomatous polyps. Unfortunately, as time progresses, it is possible for some of the polyps in your colon to grow abnormal cells, which are then identified as cancerous tumors.

Indications of Colon Cancer:

Importantly, the early signs of colon cancer can be difficult to catch, because some of the polyps that are typical with this disease can produce very few symptoms, and are regularly quite small, which makes them hard to notice. Because of this, many experts and doctors suggest that people should engage in regular screening tests to reduce their chances of falling victim to colon cancer. After all, the earlier the symptoms of colon cancer are spotted and the polyps are identified and removed, the more likely it is to catch the problem before it evolves into full colon cancer.

Some of the most common signs of colon cancer beyond polyps are:

  • Bleeding around the rectum or blood that is present in your stool.
  • A change in typical bowel habits, such as frequent problems with constipation or diarrhea, or a change to the general consistency of your stool that remains different for a period of more than four weeks.
  • Discomfort in the abdomen that is persistent and sometimes severe, such as gas, pain or various cramps.
  • A feeling that you cannot properly empty your bowel when you go to the toilet, or that you need to go to the toilet more often than usual.
  • Fatigue, weakness, and a general sense of unwellness. Some people also suffer from sudden and unexplained weight loss.

As mentioned above, many patients suffering from colon cancer do not experience any symptoms at all during the initial stages of this disease. However, when symptoms do begin to appear, it's not uncommon for different people to experience them differently. After all, the way that you respond to cancer will depend on the size of the cancer and the location that it has within your intestine.

When You Should Visit a Doctor:

It's important to see a doctor as soon as you begin to notice that something maybe wrong, or unusual within your bowel. If you notice any of the symptoms typically associated with colon cancer, such as persistent bowel movement changes or blood in your stool, then make an appointment at your earliest convenience.

It is also worth speaking to a health provider about how regularly you should be screened for colon cancer. Most people recommend starting screenings at the age of fifty, but different recommendations may be given depending on individual risk factors.