Symptoms of Colon Cancer: What You Need to Know

Symptoms of colorectal cancer?

In the past 3 to 4 weeks, my bowel movements have been thin and infrequent, and after a few days, I experience diarrhea, which also feels minimal.
Sometimes, when I strain to have a bowel movement, I notice a bit of bright red blood on the toilet paper.
I also occasionally feel like I haven't completely emptied my bowels.
My bowel habits have changed from once a day in the morning to now twice a day (morning and evening).
Could this possibly be colon cancer? A few days ago, I ate more meat than usual, and my stool was somewhat dark and slightly thicker (but still thinner than normal).
I've gained quite a bit of weight over the New Year, so I was planning to start a diet when school begins.
Could these changes in my diet be the cause of my symptoms?

Mr. Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/24

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

This situation likely indicates a higher possibility of hemorrhoidal bleeding.
As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a concern.
It is recommended to avoid constipation during this period and to shorten the time spent on bowel movements.
Warm sitz baths may also help alleviate symptoms.
You can purchase over-the-counter hemorrhoidal suppositories for use.
It is best not to take stool softeners indiscriminately; at this age, increasing dietary fiber and hydration should be sufficient.
Although the risk of developing colorectal cancer at the age of 21 is not zero, it is generally very low.
It is advisable to maintain a light diet and a good daily routine.
Changes in diet during weight loss can also contribute to these symptoms.
If symptoms persist without improvement, you may consult a physician for medication.
If there is still no improvement or if there are significant concerns, a colonoscopy can be arranged.

Reply Date: 2016/03/24

More Info

When it comes to understanding the symptoms of colon cancer, it's essential to recognize that many of the signs can overlap with other gastrointestinal issues. Your recent experiences of having thin stools, changes in bowel habits, and the presence of blood on toilet paper are indeed concerning and warrant further evaluation.
Colon cancer often presents with a variety of symptoms, which can include changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, abdominal discomfort, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement. The fact that you have noticed a change in the consistency of your stools, particularly that they have become thinner and that you are experiencing a sensation of incomplete evacuation, could be indicative of a potential obstruction or growth in the colon.
The presence of blood, even if it is just a small amount, should not be overlooked. Blood in the stool can arise from various sources, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or more serious conditions like colon cancer. The fact that you mentioned having a black stool after consuming more meat could suggest the presence of digested blood, which is another red flag that should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

It's also important to consider the role of diet and lifestyle changes. A sudden increase in meat consumption or a significant change in your diet can indeed affect your bowel habits. However, while dietary changes can lead to temporary gastrointestinal disturbances, the combination of your symptoms—especially the blood and changes in stool consistency—should prompt you to seek medical advice.

Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider who can perform a thorough evaluation. This may include a physical examination, a detailed medical history, and possibly diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is particularly useful as it allows direct visualization of the colon and the opportunity to take biopsies if any suspicious lesions are found.

In terms of timing, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to seek medical attention sooner rather than later. Early detection of colon cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes, so it is better to err on the side of caution.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to dietary changes or other benign gastrointestinal issues, the presence of blood, changes in stool consistency, and the sensation of incomplete evacuation are concerning signs that should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Early intervention is key in addressing potential issues, including colon cancer, so please consider making an appointment with a gastroenterologist for further assessment.

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