Colon Cancer Symptoms
Early Detection of Colon Cancer Saves Lives
Colorectal cancers are cancers of the colon or rectum, which are gastrointestinal cancers. They begin as noncancerous clumps of cells called polyps, which can become cancerous over time.
Early recognition of colorectal cancer symptoms can lead to early detection and more effective treatment.
Learn About the Symptoms of Colon Cancer
Colorectal cancer symptoms may include one or more of the following:
- A change in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool that lasts for more than a few days
- A sense of urgency or bowel fullness that is not relieved by a bowel movement
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in the stool, dark stool
- Persistent abdominal discomforts, such as cramps gas, or pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness or fatigue
Colorectal cancer may bleed into the digestive tract. Bleeding can occur even if the stool looks normal. Over time, the blood loss can lead to low red blood cell counts or anemia.
In some cases, a blood test showing anemia is the first sign of colorectal cancer.
When to See a Doctor
Make an appointment with your physician if you notice any colon cancer symptoms, particularly persistent changes in bowel habits or blood in your stool.
Your physician can determine the cause of your colon cancer symptoms and advise you on when to begin screening for colorectal cancer.
Guidelines generally recommend that colorectal cancer screenings begin at age 50, but you may benefit from more frequent screenings if you have other risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer.
To contact one of New Jersey’s best
colon cancer specialists call
844 CANCERNJ or 844-226-2376.