Colon cancer is a condition that will generally only produce symptoms in the later stages, so it is difficult to spot at a stage where it is treatable. However, there may be some earlier indications of a bowel problem if you know what to look for, so it is important that you do not ignore any signs that something may be wrong.
What Do I Need to Look Out For?
The symptoms of colorectal cancer will depend on the exact location of the tumor. However, regardless of its location, one of the most common symptoms will be a worsening case of constipation. This will usually be one of the first symptoms to appear, and it will often be ignored by the patient. Constipation can indicate a wide range of conditions, or even just that a change in the diet is needed, but you should seek advice from your doctor if it persists for more than a week.
Additional symptoms, which are also common in many diseases, may also be seen. Fever, nausea and vomiting are three frequently seen symptoms, and these may also be accompanied by weight loss and the presence of blood in the stool.
It is possible for colon cancer to be an inherited disorder, so if you have a family history of the disease you may be at a higher risk as a result of this. However, the vast majority of colorectal cases have no obvious genetic link.
What Are The Risk Factors?
The majority of cases of colorectal cancer are considered to be related to lifestyle, and most cases will also be linked to age. Age is considered to be a major factor in the onset of colon cancer, and it is more common in those aged over fifty. This is probably because the disease takes a long time to develop. Initially, polyps will form on the lining of the colon, and over time, these will turn cancerous. However, it can take many years for this to occur.
Men are more at risk of developing colon cancer than women, though it is not known why this is the case. Other risk factors include eating a diet that is high in fat and processed foods. Alcohol and smoking increase the risk of this and many other cancers.
If you are overweight or obese, then this means you are at a higher risk for the condition. As a lifestyle that is primarily sedentary will also increase your risk, it would be highly advisable to start becoming more active. This will not only help you to lose weight, but will also ensure that food moves through the digestive tract at a normal speed. This reduces the symptoms of constipation and reduces the exposure of the bowel lining to any substances that may be able to cause cancer.
If you have an existing bowel condition such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, then the risk of colon cancer is increased. However, following the advice you have been given regarding your diet will be beneficial.
When Do I Need to See a Doctor?
You may need to see a colon and rectal specialist (also known as a proctologist) if you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned. Any indication of rectal bleeding should also be checked out by a specialist, as colon cancer is a potential cause of this.
You may need to see a colon and rectal specialist (also known as a proctologist) if you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned. Any indication of rectal bleeding should also be checked out by a specialist, as colon cancer is a potential cause of this.
In patients aged over fifty, who are already considered to be at an increased risk, rectal bleeding and anaemia are high risk indicators for the condition, and should be checked by a doctor immediately. If it is caught soon enough, colon cancer is extremely treatable.
Though you may think your symptoms are common and will resolve with time, it is much better to book an appointment with a local colorectal surgeon to put your mind at ease. If necessary, a screening procedure such as a colonoscopy can be carried out to check for the presence of tumours or polyps (which can develop into tumours if they are not removed). If you continue to experience any of these symptoms, regular screening may be advised, which will usually take the form of a colonoscopy. This also allows any growths to be removed during the same procedure.
