Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but it often goes undetected until its late stages because its symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other, less serious health problems. Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment, so it's important to recognize the less common signs of the disease. In this article, we'll discuss five unfamiliar signs of colon cancer that many have mistakenly ignored for years.
Unexplained Fatigue or Weakness
Fatigue is often attributed to stress, lack of sleep, or simply aging. However, persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as colon cancer. When cancer causes internal bleeding or reduces the body's ability to absorb nutrients, it can lead to anemia and general fatigue. If this fatigue is accompanied by other symptoms, it's important not to ignore it.
Why it's overlooked: Many assume it's just fatigue, but it could be a sign that your body isn't getting the oxygen it needs due to blood loss or malnutrition. Sudden, Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss can be a warning sign of many types of cancer, including colon cancer. This occurs because cancer cells are using up too much of the body's energy, or the body's metabolism may be out of balance as it tries to fight the disease.
Why it's ignored: People often assume it's related to stress, dietary changes, or other unrelated causes, and dismiss it as harmless.
Change in bowel habits (without a clear explanation):
This is one of the most common early signs of colon cancer, but it's often ignored. You may notice a change in the frequency, consistency, or shape of your stool, or even a feeling that your bowels aren't completely empty. This could be caused by a tumor pressing on your colon or rectum, obstructing the flow of stool.
Why it's ignored: People may attribute it to dietary changes, stress, or a short-term illness like the stomach flu.
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Unexplained Abdominal Pain or Discomfort
Mild, persistent abdominal pain or cramps, especially if they persist and don't go away, could be a sign of colon cancer. As the tumor grows, it may cause obstructions or irritation in the colon lining, leading to pain.
Why it's missed: Abdominal pain may be mistaken for indigestion, gas, or a stomach virus, especially if it's not severe.
Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding (but not always obvious)
Although blood in the stool is one of the most common signs of colon cancer, it's not always obvious. Sometimes, the blood may be hidden (occult blood) and can only be detected through a stool analysis. If you notice changes in the color or consistency of your stool, especially if the blood is light, it's worth investigating further.
Why it's missed: People may not notice the blood, especially if it's small or light. Or they may assume hemorrhoids are the cause of the bleeding.
Conclusion
Colon cancer can present subtle and unfamiliar symptoms, which many people ignore, believing them to be minor or unrelated to any serious illness. Early detection of colon cancer significantly improves outcomes, so it's important to take these symptoms seriously. If you notice any of these symptoms, don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
Call to Action
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, please schedule an appointment with your doctor. Early screening and diagnosis save lives.
