Early symptoms and signs of rectal cancer

Early symptoms of rectal cancer often include blood in the stool, a feeling of tenesmus, and discomfort in the anal area. Although these symptoms may mimic other conditions, they may be early warning signs of rectal cancer.

1. Bloody stool: Bloody stool is a common early symptom of rectal cancer, but it is not the only cause. Many people think that bloody stool is hemorrhoids, but it is not. Bloody stool may be caused by many reasons, such as ulcerative colitis or rectal polyps. When bloody stool occurs, the most important thing is to seek medical attention in time and determine the cause through professional examination.

2. Tenesmus: This feeling is like always having the urge to go to the bathroom, but not much stool is produced each time you go. This symptom may be because the tumor takes up space in the rectum, resulting in poor bowel movements. Although this feeling may sometimes be caused by improper diet or stress, it should be taken seriously if it persists.

3. Anal discomfort: Anal discomfort may manifest as heaviness or pain, which is also a possible sign of rectal cancer. Many people may mistakenly think it is simple indigestion or hemorrhoids, but if this discomfort persists, you should still see a doctor as soon as possible.

4. Changes in bowel habits: If you find that your bowel habits have changed significantly, such as going once a day to once every few days, or the shape of your stool has become abnormal, this may be a sign of rectal cancer. Of course, changes in diet or lifestyle habits may also lead to changes in bowel habits, but if there is no obvious reason, you should still pay attention to it.

5. Weight loss and fatigue: Unexplained weight loss and persistent fatigue may also be early signs of rectal cancer. The tumor may consume a lot of energy in the body, causing weight loss and fatigue. If you find yourself losing weight without deliberately losing weight, or always feel tired, it is recommended to get a physical examination as soon as possible.

It is very important to seek professional medical attention for the above symptoms. Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy or other imaging tests to help determine the cause. Early detection and treatment of rectal cancer can greatly increase the chances of cure, so don't ignore these signs from your body.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also an important measure to prevent colorectal cancer. Eating more fiber-rich foods, maintaining moderate exercise, and avoiding excessive intake of red meat and processed meat are all good habits that can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

I hope this article can provide you with useful information and help you take better care of your health. If you or someone close to you experiences the above symptoms, it is recommended that you seek medical attention as soon as possible to obtain professional diagnosis and treatment.