Five major symptoms of early colorectal cancer

The five major early symptoms of rectal cancer include blood in the stool, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain and weight loss. Knowing these symptoms can help with early detection and treatment.

1. Blood in the stool: One of the early symptoms of rectal cancer is blood in the stool, which many people mistake for hemorrhoids. If you find bright red blood in your stool, or if your stool becomes dark red or even black, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Blood in the stool may be caused by a ruptured tumor, and early detection can greatly increase the cure rate.

2. Constipation: Long-term constipation is also a warning sign of rectal cancer. Tumors in the rectum can block the normal passage of stool, leading to constipation. If you find yourself constipated for a long time, and there is no significant improvement through dietary adjustments and drug treatment, it is best to have a colonoscopy.

3. Diarrhea: Although constipation is a common symptom, diarrhea should not be ignored. Patients with rectal cancer may experience unexplained diarrhea, especially when diarrhea and constipation occur alternately. This situation needs to be taken seriously. Tumors may cause irregular intestinal peristalsis, leading to diarrhea.

4. Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain is a common symptom, but if the pain lasts for a long time and cannot be relieved, you may need to consider the possibility of rectal cancer. Tumor growth will compress surrounding tissues and nerves, causing abdominal pain. Especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as blood in the stool and weight loss, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

5. Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss is a warning sign. Rectal cancer patients often experience rapid weight loss, because the tumor consumes a lot of body energy and may affect appetite and digestive function. If you do not have a weight loss plan, but your weight has dropped significantly in a short period of time, you need to do a comprehensive physical examination as soon as possible.

In addition to the five symptoms mentioned above, there are some other symptoms that need attention, such as anemia, fatigue and loss of appetite. The key to early detection of rectal cancer is timely medical treatment and regular physical examinations. Especially for people with a family history of rectal cancer, regular colonoscopy should be performed.

1. Regular physical examination: It is recommended that people over 45 years old undergo a colonoscopy every 5-10 years. If there is a family history or other high-risk factors, the examination frequency should be higher.

2. Dietary adjustment: Eating more fiber-rich foods, such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains, can help maintain intestinal health and reduce the risk of rectal cancer.

3. Keep exercising: Moderate exercise can promote intestinal motility, reduce constipation, and also help control weight and reduce the risk of cancer.

4. Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake: Smoking and excessive drinking will increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Try to quit smoking and limit alcohol intake, which is good for your health.

5. Pay attention to your lifestyle habits: Maintaining a regular schedule and good living habits will reduce stress, help improve immunity and reduce the risk of cancer.

Understanding and paying attention to the early symptoms of rectal cancer, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and having regular physical examinations are all effective measures to prevent and detect rectal cancer early.