Symptoms of Colon Cancer

In the early stages of the disease, symptoms of colon cancer don't usually appear. Once the cancer has progressed, however, symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, blood in the stool, fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, and a change in the frequency of bowel movements. Pain is not normally one of the colon cancer symptoms.

Information on Colon Cancer

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 colon cancer screening is so important. If diagnosed and treated in its early stages, colon cancer is highly curable.

What Are Possible Colon Cancer Symptoms?

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.

Final Thoughts on Symptoms of Colon Cancer

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 healthcare provider.

(Symptoms of Colon Cancer Continued: Page 2)