Early symptoms of rectal cancer

The early symptoms of rectal cancer may not be obvious, but common manifestations include changes in bowel habits, blood or mucus in the stool, and a feeling of incomplete bowel movement. It is recommended that once the above symptoms appear, you should seek medical attention in time to rule out the risk of rectal cancer and seek treatment as soon as possible.

1. Changes in bowel habits

Early stage colorectal cancer may cause abnormal symptoms such as frequent bowel movements, alternating diarrhea or constipation. This is due to abnormal bowel function caused by lesions inside the rectum. Sometimes patients may also feel difficulty in defecation or be unable to empty the stool normally. If this abnormality persists for more than two weeks, especially without other obvious triggers such as changes in diet or stress, you should see a doctor for a colonoscopy as soon as possible.

2. Blood in stool or mucus in stool

Blood in the stool is an important warning sign of colorectal cancer, but early blood in the stool is often small in amount and does not necessarily cause obvious discomfort. It may appear as bright red or dark red blood attached to the surface of the stool, or even mixed with mucus or pus. Hemorrhoids can also cause blood in the stool, but the difference between the two is that blood in the stool caused by colorectal cancer is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as weight loss and changes in bowel movement patterns.

3. Feeling of incomplete bowel movement

Some patients may feel the urge to defecate after defecation, but are unable to expel more stool. This is a common symptom of intestinal obstruction and is related to the presence of a tumor inside the rectum. If this feeling persists, especially with blood in the stool or changes in bowel habits, you need to be highly vigilant.

4Other systemic manifestations

In addition to local symptoms, early stage colorectal cancer may be accompanied by mild systemic manifestations such as weight loss, fatigue, anemia, etc. Although these manifestations are not specific symptoms of colorectal cancer, if they occur in combination with the above-mentioned colorectal problems, it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible and undergo biochemical or imaging examinations.

Early diagnosis and treatment are the key to defeating rectal cancer. It is recommended not to ignore the doctor's advice when any suspicious symptoms occur. Colonoscopy and tumor marker tests such as CEA and CA19-9 are effective diagnostic methods. Early intervention can significantly improve the cure rate. I hope everyone can develop healthy living habits, pay attention to dietary fiber intake, balance work and rest, and regularly perform intestinal health screening to prevent rectal-related diseases!