6 Signs of Colon Trouble That Are Easy to Explain Away

Most of the time, stomach trouble comes down to something you ate. Any of these can throw your digestion off: a heavy meal, low fiber intake, intolerance, or digestive upset. If it lasts more than a few days, though, pay attention. Some of the symptoms of colorectal cancer are similar to those of common digestive problems, and colorectal cancer may have no symptoms, especially early on. Big Laps aims to help readers identify changes that should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

1. A Noticeable Change in Your Bowel Habits

Take note if your bathroom routine shifts and doesn’t go back to normal. There are numerous causes for constipation, diarrhea, or a new bowel pattern. If it doesn’t clear up, though, mention it to your doctor.

2. Stools Look Different, or You Still Feel Full

Colorectal cancer may cause symptoms such as a change in stool shape, including narrowing. Sometimes you may also experience a feeling that your bowel still hasn’t emptied after a bowel movement. The symptoms are not necessarily cancer, but if they persist, they should not be overlooked.

3. Blood Shows Up in Your Stool

There are many reasons for blood in or on the stool, such as hemorrhoids, but it may be a warning sign of colorectal cancer. Bright red blood is easier to see, and blood higher in the digestive tract may make the stool appear darker or black. Some bleeding is not even noticeable.

4. Abdominal Pain Doesn’t Go Away

Abdominal discomfort may occur with gas, indigestion, and other common ailments. What matters is whether the pain, cramping, or discomfort keeps returning or never really lets up. If abdominal symptoms persist, it’s worth talking to a health care professional.

5. You Lose Weight Without Trying

Unexplained weight loss is another warning sign you shouldn’t brush off. There are many reasons this can occur, but if you notice a change in your bowel movements, spotting or bleeding, or abdominal symptoms while you are losing weight, let your doctor know.

6. Fatigue Has No Clear Explanation

Fatigue may have many causes, but sometimes it’s associated with anemia from gradual blood loss. Bleeding in the digestive tract can also be slow and not apparent, but in time can cause anemia and fatigue.

When Should You Talk to a Doctor?

The symptoms are not certain signs of colorectal cancer. Similar problems can be caused by hemorrhoids, infections, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, medications, and diet. However, if symptoms stick around, get worse, or come in combination, though, It’s time to talk to your doctor.

The stool may be black and tarry, or there may be a significant amount of gastrointestinal bleeding, which requires immediate medical attention.

Don’t Wait for Symptoms to Start Screening

You can have polyps or colorectal cancer without symptoms at all. That’s why screening is important even when nothing feels wrong. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends most adults start screening for colorectal cancer at age 45. Screening should continue through age 75. The decision to continue screening between ages 76 and 85 should be made individually, based on your health and screening history. 

Screening does not necessarily involve a colonoscopy. A few tests can be conducted at home, like the fecal immunochemical test (FIT). If colorectal cancer runs in your family, or you gave inflammatory bowel disease or a genetic condition that raises your risk, you may need to start screening sooner and repeat it more often.