Early symptoms and manifestations of colorectal cancer

Early symptoms of colorectal cancer include abdominal pain, blood in the stool, constipation or diarrhea, etc. Knowing these symptoms can help detect the disease early.

1. Abdominal pain and bloating: In the early stages of colorectal cancer, there is often intermittent abdominal pain, which may not be severe but will recur. Abdominal bloating is also a common symptom, especially when you feel stomach discomfort after eating. This type of abdominal pain and bloating may be mistaken for indigestion or stomach problems, but if the symptoms persist for a long time, they should be taken seriously.

2. Blood in the stool and black stool: Blood in the stool is an important sign of colorectal cancer. The blood may appear bright red or dark red. If you find blood in your stool, especially if there is no obvious reason, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible. Black stool may also be one of the early symptoms of colorectal cancer, which is caused by the blood staying in the intestine for a long time.

3. Changes in bowel habits: Bowel cancer may cause changes in bowel habits, such as alternating constipation and diarrhea. Some people may find that their stools become thinner or have an abnormal shape, which may be due to the intestinal tumor affecting the passage of stool. If this situation lasts for more than two weeks, you need to be alert.

4. Weight loss and fatigue: Unexplained weight loss and persistent fatigue are also early symptoms of colorectal cancer. Because the tumor consumes a lot of nutrients, the body may experience obvious fatigue and weight loss. If there is no other obvious reason for these symptoms, further examination is recommended.

5. Anemia: Colon cancer may cause chronic blood loss, leading to anemia. Anemia can make people feel dizzy, weak, pale, etc. The presence of anemia can be detected through blood tests. If the cause of anemia is unknown, the possibility of colon cancer should be considered.

6. Intestinal obstruction: In the early stages of intestinal cancer, partial intestinal obstruction may occur, manifested as abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, etc. In this case, food and gas cannot pass through the intestines normally, causing severe discomfort. If you have similar symptoms, you need to seek medical attention in time.

In order to better prevent and detect colorectal cancer early, it is recommended that you:

1. Regular physical examinations: Especially for people with a family history of colorectal cancer, regular colonoscopy can effectively detect early lesions. People over the age of 50 should also undergo regular screening.

2. Healthy diet: Eating more fiber-rich foods, such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains, and reducing the intake of red meat and processed meat can help reduce the risk of colon cancer.

3. Maintain good living habits: Regular work and rest and moderate exercise help maintain intestinal health. Avoid smoking and excessive drinking, as these bad habits increase the risk of colon cancer.

4. Pay attention to physical changes: If the above symptoms occur, do not ignore them and seek medical attention in time. Early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer can significantly increase the cure rate.

Understanding and paying attention to the early symptoms of colorectal cancer and taking active preventive measures are important steps to stay healthy.