Symptoms of Colon Cancer: What You Need to Know - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Symptoms of Colon Cancer: What You Need to Know

Hello： Colorectal cancer does not have specific symptoms; certain symptoms are merely indicative. <br>It is important to pay attention to whether your diet is balanced, and if you are getting enough hydration and fiber. <br>If necessary, you may consult a gastroenterologist. <br>

Symptoms of colorectal cancer?

During high school, I often experienced blood in my stool (the stool was very hard and the blood was bright red).
After starting college, my sleep schedule and diet became irregular.
Recently, over the past month, I've been experiencing frequent abdominal gas, along with sounds of peristalsis, as if gas is moving through my intestines.
It's difficult to pass gas, and I often have prolonged episodes of belching, usually after meals.
When I have gas, my abdomen feels somewhat uncomfortable.
Sometimes I experience constipation, but other times I don't; occasionally, I have diarrhea, although the color is normal.
When I'm not constipated, my stool is shaped like a thin log, but it tends to break apart when it comes into contact with water.
At times, I also have larger stool pieces, and wiping can reveal mucus.
I have researched some information and noticed that certain symptoms resemble those of colorectal cancer.

Liu Xiaojie, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/10

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Colorectal cancer does not have specific symptoms; certain symptoms are merely indicative.
It is important to pay attention to whether your diet is balanced, and if you are getting enough hydration and fiber.
If necessary, you may consult a gastroenterologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2021/02/10

More Info

Understanding the symptoms of colon cancer is crucial, especially for individuals experiencing gastrointestinal issues. Your description of symptoms, including blood in the stool, abdominal discomfort, gas, and changes in bowel habits, raises valid concerns. While it's important to remember that not all gastrointestinal symptoms indicate cancer, being vigilant is essential.

Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, often presents with a variety of symptoms, some of which can overlap with other gastrointestinal conditions. Common symptoms include:
1. Changes in Bowel Habits: This can manifest as diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of stool. You mentioned experiencing both constipation and diarrhea, which can be a sign of underlying issues.

2. Blood in Stool: The presence of bright red blood can indicate bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, which may be due to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or more serious conditions like colon cancer. It's important to note that even small amounts of blood should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

3. Abdominal Discomfort: Symptoms such as cramping, bloating, or persistent gas can be associated with colon cancer, but they are also common in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

4. Changes in Stool Appearance: You mentioned that your stool can be thin or fragmented. A change in the shape of your stool, particularly if it becomes pencil-thin, can be a red flag for colon cancer, as it may indicate a blockage in the colon.

5. Unexplained Weight Loss: While you did not mention this, significant weight loss without trying can be a symptom of colon cancer.

6. Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or weakness can also be a sign of cancer, often due to anemia from chronic blood loss.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy, which allows for direct visualization of the colon and the opportunity to take biopsies if necessary. Additionally, stool tests can check for hidden blood, which can be an early indicator of colon cancer.

It's also worth considering lifestyle factors that may contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms. Stress, dietary choices, and irregular eating patterns can significantly impact gut health. Incorporating a balanced diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and managing stress can help alleviate some symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, they do not definitively indicate colon cancer. However, given the potential seriousness of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical advice. Early detection and intervention are key in managing any potential health issues, including colon cancer. Regular screenings, especially if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors, are recommended starting at age 45 or earlier based on individual risk assessments.

Similar Q&A

Do I Have Colon Cancer? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns at 16

This August, I discovered I have internal hemorrhoids, so I started paying special attention to my diet. Now that school has started, I drink a lot of water and eat an apple, banana, or guava every day. I also began exercising, but by November, my bowel habits suddenly changed (t...

Dr. Chen Shunfu reply Internal Medicine
Colorectal cancer can occur in individuals of all age groups, with the incidence gradually increasing with age, particularly among those aged 50 to 60 years. However, there has been a trend of younger individuals being diagnosed with cancer in recent years; colorectal cancer has ...

Understanding Bloating: Symptoms and Prevention of Rectal Cancer

Occasional bloating and changes in bowel habits can indeed be concerning, as they may be associated with various gastrointestinal conditions, including colorectal cancer. The symptoms of colorectal cancer can include: 1. Changes in Bowel Habits: This may involve diarrhea, ...

Dr. Wang Qichao reply Surgery
Symptoms of rectal cancer often include bleeding, changes in bowel habits, mucus discharge, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. However, relying solely on the patient's symptom description for diagnosis is often unreliable. A basic rectal examination or even a colonoscop...

Understanding Rectal Pressure: Is It a Sign of Colon Cancer?

Hello Doctor: For the past month, I have been experiencing a sensation of wanting to have a bowel movement even after I have finished, but I am unable to pass anything. The main issue is that after each bowel movement, I feel a tight, full sensation in my anus, as if something is...

Dr. Li Yongming reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, your symptoms may be warning signs of colorectal polyps or cancer. The "irritable bowel syndrome" mentioned in the text may also present similar symptoms; however, these symptoms typically improve or lessen after a bowel movement. A better recommendation is to sc...

Understanding the Link Between Stool Changes and Colon Cancer Risks

Hello Doctor, my stool has been flat, thin, and short for a year. Could this be a sign of colorectal cancer? I only recently learned that this could indicate colorectal cancer. Thank you! Mr. Chen 0935-519-552

Dr. Li Yongming reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dangerous symptoms of colorectal cancer include changes in bowel habits, changes in stool shape, mucus in stool, blood in stool or blood-streaked stool, urgency, abdominal pain, anemia, loss of appetite, weight loss, and symptoms of metastasis to other organs (such as bone pain, ...