Colon cancer starts in the cells lining the large intestine as non-cancerous benign clumps called polyps. If not addressed, these polyps eventually grow and become cancerous. They may lead to none or minimal signs, making it difficult to diagnose colon cancer at an early stage. This is why regular screenings play a key role, especially among older adults who are more prone to this disease. Here are the telltale signs of colon cancer that one should watch out for.

Common telltale signs of colon cancer

Unexplained weight loss
Many illnesses cause weight loss, and this type of cancer is no different. Weight loss may be caused due to several reasons. The chemicals released by the cancer cells change the way our system reacts to food, and the cancerous cells also use up the energy converted from food. While our immune system has to work twice as hard to fight cancer, most of our energy is consumed by the immune system, leading to substantial weight loss. Another reason could be the formation of a large polyp that blocks the large intestine and causes irregular bowel movements.

Fatigue
It’s common to feel tired with the daily rut of juggling work and personal life. Adequate rest or quality sleep can replenish the lack of energy and bring back one’s productivity, but if one experiences persistent tiredness that doesn’t go away even after getting adequate rest, it is called fatigue. The immune system uses up most of the body’s energy to fight cancer, while the cancer cells use up energy to multiply, leading to exhaustion. Internal blood loss could also cause fatigue.

Change in bowel habits
With the growth of the cancerous tumors, the bowel habits of a patient also change. Changes in bowel movements, their frequency, and narrow stool may be signs of the disease.

Abdominal cramps
Abdominal cramps are common, but prolonged, severe abdominal pain is one of the telltale signs of colon cancer.

Blood in stool
Rectal bleeding is usually linked with hemorrhoids, but colorectal cancer also causes this symptom. If one notices blood with stool or even on the tissue paper, they should consider consulting a doctor immediately.

Colon cancer can be treated if diagnosed at an early age, so it’s advisable to watch out for any abnormalities associated with bowel habits and the above-listed telltale signs of colon cancer. There are five stages of colon cancer, and its causes need further research. However, a few factors can trigger or increase the risk of this illness:

• Old age
• Diabetes
• Alcohol consumption
• Exposure to radiation
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Family history of colon cancer
• Certain inherited syndromes
• Gene mutations
• Past medical history of colon cancer
• African-American race
• Intestinal issues
• Inactive or sedentary lifestyle.