Bowel Cancer – Do Not Ignore Early Symptoms – Step To Health
Bowel cancer is one of the most dangerous cancers, leading to the highest number of deaths. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), bowel cancer affects 10 to 15 percent of the population.
It develops when the colon begins to uncontrollably form clumps in the lining of the large intestine.
As with other cancers, bowel cancer can attack the body suddenly and lead to numerous complications in a short time. This disease is extremely dangerous.
People who have colon polyps, a family history of this type of cancer or who have ulcerative colitis are more likely to develop it.
Colon cancer – early diagnosis
Early diagnosis of the disease and appropriate treatment may increase the patient’s chances of extending life. That is why it is important to know the initial symptoms of bowel cancer and to consult a specialist in case of any suspicions.
Let’s take a look at the seven most common symptoms to look out for.
1. Changes in the stool
If you are unable to defecate for a long time, do so too often, or your stool is pencil-shaped, be sure to see your doctor.
These symptoms can, of course, be due to a wide variety of problems, including your eating habits. However, remember that their long-term occurrence may be one of the first signs of bowel cancer.
2. Blood in the stool
According to information published by the Cleveland Clinic, the presence of blood in the stool is one of the most serious signals associated with bowel cancer.
There are other reasons for this, but blood in the stool often indicates that a cancer is developing in the large intestine.
Other reasons may be:
- Gastritis
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn’s disease
- Chronic constipation
3. Anemia
People suffering from anemia most often feel very weak and exhausted. This happens even when they get enough sleep and follow a healthy diet.
The causes of anemia can be genetics, a poor diet, or excessive blood loss. However, it cannot be ruled out that anemia is also a consequence of developing bowel cancer.
4. Abdominal pain
Normal stomach pain could be the result of indigestion or other minor complaints. Therefore, it should not be linked to bowel cancer immediately. However, if the pain comes back regularly and it doesn’t seem to be related to any specific cause, it may be wise to visit a specialist to have the problem looked at.
Sudden pain may be a sign of progressive changes in the intestinal environment. It can also signal changes in the bacterial flora or be a symptom resulting from excessive cell growth in this area.
5. Sudden weight loss
Almost everyone views losing weight as a positive process. Indeed, it is, as long as it is due to playing sports and following a healthy diet.
If you notice a sudden weight loss, it is almost always a sign of some medical condition. In the case of bowel cancer, patients also notice a decrease in appetite.
This, in turn, leads to illnesses resulting from a deficiency of certain nutrients.
6. Vomiting
Vomiting caused by indigestion or any digestive problems can be quite common and usually subsides very quickly.
However, if vomiting becomes a recurring problem, or it occurs for no apparent reason, it could be a sign of something serious.
The causes may be various but it cannot be ruled out that it is cancer of the intestine. Abnormal growth of gut cells affects the digestive system, which can cause vomiting.
This in turn leads to dehydration, fatigue, and acidity.
7. Flatulence
This could be a symptom of other changes in the body naturally. The cause of flatulence may be the consumption of certain foods, as well as various types of medical conditions or unhealthy health habits.
The key to finding bowel cancer early is knowing how to spot these symptoms and keeping track of them. If you notice two or more of the above symptoms, do not hesitate and see your doctor for tests. To stay healthy, you need to look after yourself and get tested regularly.
