Colon cancer starts as non-cancerous growths or polyps in the colon. These growths can become cancerous over time. Due to the lack of signs and symptoms in the early stages, colon cancer can be difficult to diagnose. However, these signs of colon cancer that can easily be overlooked, should be taken seriously if they persist for a long time. Just like with all other types of cancer, colon cancer, when detected early can be treatable.
Listed below are some signs of colon cancer that can easily be overlooked.
Abdominal pain – One of the signs of colon cancer that can easily be overlooked is abdominal pain or discomfort. Pain or discomfort in the abdomen can occur due to many reasons. Some not so severe conditions that can cause this pain are gas, lactose intolerance, and irritable bowel syndrome. However, if the pain is caused without any reason and lasts for a long time, one should consult their doctor.
Blood in the stool – Although most individuals would get alarmed to notice blood in their stool. Some young people might put this down to conditions such as hemorrhoids. Also, sometimes bright red blood might not be visible, and the stool might just be a very dark color. Hence, do not ignore any changes in the color of your stool as it could be a sign of colon cancer.
Fatigue – Fatigue or extreme tiredness that does not go away even after a rest is a common symptom of most health conditions, especially cancer. It is also one of the most common signs of colon cancer that can easily be overlooked.
Weight loss – Even though, all of us desperately try to lose weight, unexplained weight loss of more than 10 pounds in six months or less should be a cause of concern. Weight loss is a symptom of most types of cancer. It is another sign of colon cancer that can easily be overlooked.
Changes in bowel habits – Any changes in bowel habits such as bloating, cramping, constipation, or diarrhea should not be ignored especially if they persist over a long period of time. One should consult their doctor to setup a screening for colon cancer as soon as possible if they’re suffering from such conditions.
Anemia – The condition where a person does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to other parts of the body, also known as anemia, can be a sign of colon cancer. This sign is most often overlooked as anemia can also be caused due to a deficiency of iron in the body. This condition can be detected through a complete blood count test. If it is not resolved even after consuming foods that are rich in iron or taking iron supplements then screening for colon cancer is recommended.
It has been found that 60% of colon cancer deaths could have been prevented if the condition was detected early. Hence, do not ignore the symptoms above and contact your doctor for guidance.
