Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Symptoms of colon cancer usually don't appear in the early stages of the disease. Once the cancer has progressed beyond its earliest stages, symptoms of colon cancer may include abdominal discomfort, blood in the stool, fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, and a change in the frequency of bowel movements. Pain is not normally an early sign of colon cancer -- don't wait for pain to develop before seeing a doctor.

 

Symptoms of Colon Cancer: An Introduction

As with many cancers, there are usually no symptoms of colon cancer in the early stages of the disease. That's why screening for the disease is so important. If diagnosed and treated in its early stages, colon cancer is highly curable.
 

What Are the Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

Once symptoms of colon cancer do develop, they may include:
 
  • A change in bowel habits
  • Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool
  • Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
  • Stools that are narrower than usual
  • Frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps
  • Weight loss for no known reason
  • Feeling very tired
  • Vomiting.

 

Symptoms of Colon Cancer: Final Thoughts

Because other health problems can cause these same symptoms, you should talk to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing one or more of these possible symptoms of colon cancer.
 
Also, early symptoms of colon cancer do not include pain. It is important not to wait to feel pain before seeing a doctor.
(Symptoms of Colon Cancer Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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