What are the early symptoms of colon cancer

Early symptoms of colon cancer are often subtle and difficult to detect, but may include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. If you experience these symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible for a detailed examination to determine the cause.

1. Changes in bowel habits

Changes in bowel habits are common early signs of colon cancer, manifested in alternating diarrhea and constipation or long-term constipation. Tumor growth may cause intestinal narrowing and lead to constipation, while cancer cells ulcerating and bleeding may cause diarrhea. If the regular bowel habits suddenly change and last for several weeks, you should be highly alert.

2. Blood in stool or abnormal stool

Blood in the stool is often mistaken for hemorrhoids, but the blood in the stool of colon cancer is often dark red, which is different from the bright red bleeding characteristics of hemorrhoids. At the same time, there may be mucus or pus and blood on the surface of the stool, which is caused by inflammation or cancer. Testing for occult blood in the stool or observing changes in stool color can help detect problems early.

3. Abdominal pain and discomfort

The tumor affects the peristalsis of the smooth muscle of the intestinal wall, which may cause cramping pain or bloating. Early symptoms may be mild intermittent abdominal pain, which may worsen over time. The pain is often related to eating and defecation, such as worsening after meals or passing gas to relieve discomfort.

4. Unexplained weight loss and fatigue

Colon cancer patients often experience weight loss and fatigue due to loss of appetite, poor nutrient absorption, or inflammatory factors released by the tumor itself. If you lose weight significantly in a short period of time without any other clear reasons, this may be a warning bell from the body.

5Anemia and other systemic symptoms

Anemia caused by chronic blood loss is also common in the early stages of colon cancer, and patients may experience dizziness, fatigue, pale skin, etc. Some patients may also feel pain in the anus or a foreign body sensation, which is related to tumor compression.

Early detection and treatment are key to improving the cure rate of colon cancer. Regular physical examinations and paying attention to bowel habits and abnormal digestive system manifestations can help identify risks in advance. If symptoms occur, see a doctor promptly so that an accurate diagnosis can be made through colonoscopy or other imaging methods and treatment can be started.