10. Cramps
Colorectal cancer, namely colon cancer, numbers have seen a spike recently to become the third most prevalent cancer. Many people aren’t diagnosed with colon cancer until it’s in the end stages, but there are some subtle symptoms to help you diagnose this cancer earlier.
You don’t want to ignore any of these 10 signs that may be symptoms of colorectal cancer.
Cramping is a common— and normal— part of life. However, sometimes cramps can mean something more serious than tummy troubles or that time of the month, ladies.
9. Losing A Noticeable Amount Of Weight
Don’t fret too much if you find yourself with cramping, but do pay attention to other signs as well to rule out colon cancer. Especially if the cramping is more intense than usual and long-lasting as those could be signs of cancer.
Losing a noticeable and unexpected amount of weight in a short period of time may be a sign of cancer. An unexplained and sudden loss of weight typically means losing 5% of your body weight within six months. Cancer uses energy, and not only does this result in fatigue, but it also results in losing weight as your body expends that energy.
8. Fatigue
For colon cancer in particular, tumors may block the colon, which may lead to sudden weight loss.
Fatigue happens to the best of us, and isn’t something to be worried about every now and then. If you’re constantly feeling fatigued despite getting a good night’s rest, then you may want to consult your doctor for a cancer screening.
7. Being Constipated For Extended Periods Of Time
Cancer uses up the body’s energy and can cause blood loss, which are two things that will lead to fatigue.
Everyone suffers constipation once in awhile, however, you should consult your doctor if it persists for weeks at a time.
6. Irregular Bowel Movements
Studies suggest a correlation between colorectal cancers and constipation, and you should seek medical advice instead of taking over-the-counter medications if constipation lasts two weeks or more.
In some cases, colon cancer is to blame for a change in bowel movements.
5. Lower Abdominal Pain
For example, loose, watery stools, diarrhea, or constipation may all be signs of colorectal cancer if nothing else is causing these changes.
You should inform your doctor if you suffer from low abdominal pain and tenderness.
4. Blood In Bowel Movements
Not only can this be a sign of cancer, but it also may be a sign that cancer has spread to other parts of your body.
It’s important to discuss blood in your stool with your doctor.
3. Sudden Urge For Bowel Movements
Some people don’t notice bloody stool, or feel too embarrassed to discuss it, but it may be a sign of colorectal cancer.
Feeling a frequent or urgent urge to have a bowel movement isn’t normal and should not be ignored.
2. Painful Gas Or Bloating
Having the urgency to make a bowel movement, but not being able to pass stool is another indication of colorectal cancers.
While occasion bloating and gas is completely normal, persistent and extremely painful bloating is not.
If you’re constantly suffering from intense gas and bloating, it may be a sign to bring it to your doctor’s attention.