Colon Cancer or colorectal cancer refers to a situation of uncontrolled multiplication of cells that form the inner lining of the colon or the rectum.
The situation of uncontrolled growth results in cancer when the body’s natural defences, such as certain parts of the immune system are unable to stop the continuous cell division. These cells ultimately form a mass called the tumour, which blocks the passage and affects the functioning of the colorectal system.
Colon cancer can increase for years without showing symptoms. But it is always good to know what to look out for.
Constipation
One of the main symptoms of colon cancer is constipation. A growth in the rectum can make it really hard for stool to get by and thus cause constipation.
Thin Stool
How the stool looks after it leaves your body can help you understand what is going on inside. If the stool is thin in shape, this is because it is being pressed by some form of obstacle on the way out. In the case of colon cancer, that obstacle would be a tumour in the rectum.
Bloody Stool
Tumour tends to bleed. Not a lot and not constantly, but it bleeds now and then and when this happens, it shows up in the stool. If the tumour is in the beginning of the colon, it will be dried blood. But if it is in the rectum, the blood will still be wet and hence it will be bright red.
Weight Loss
Effortless weight loss usually means something is wrong and in the case of colon cancer, random wait loss is because the tumour is releasing chemicals that are increasing the metabolism.
Stomach Cramps
A tumour in the colon causes a bowel obstruction which stops solids, liquids and gases from passing through and this might cause cramps in the abdomen.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting can occur for a variety of reasons such as motion sickness. But even colon cancer can cause nausea and vomiting.
Gas and Bloating
Gas and bloating in the stomach may be an indication that a tumour is growing in the colon.
Lethargy
Tumour tends to bleed, which causes the loss of iron resulting in anaemia. This causes the person to feel tired and lethargic.
These are the main symptoms but since colon cancer can grow undetected, periodic checkups are advised after the age of 50.
