Colorectal cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, but it doesn’t have to be a death sentence. With the right diagnosis and treatment, colorectal cancer can be managed and even cured. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer so you can get help right away.
Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is a cancer that starts in the large intestine. It’s the third most common form of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 135,000 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in 2021.
Though anyone can develop colorectal cancer, it’s most common in people over the age of 50. Other risk factors include a family history of colorectal cancer, a personal history of colorectal polyps, being overweight or obese, and having an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
The Common Signs of Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer, affecting the colon and rectum, often develops with minimal or no symptoms in the early stages. However, as the disease progresses, it can present a range of symptoms that may signal the need for further evaluation. Recognizing these common signs early can be key to effective diagnosis and treatment:
Changes in Bowel Habits
Persistent alterations in bowel patterns are one of the most common early signs. This might include prolonged diarrhea or constipation, or a general change in stool consistency. While occasional changes are normal, ongoing or unexplained changes should be investigated.
Rectal Bleeding or Blood in Stool
Blood in the stool can appear as bright red streaks or make the stool look darker. Sometimes, blood may not be visible, but hidden, or “occult” blood, can still be present and detected through screening tests. Blood in the stool is often a sign of bleeding within the digestive tract, which may be caused by polyps, hemorrhoids, or potentially, colorectal cancer.
Abdominal Pain and Discomfort
Persistent abdominal cramps, bloating, or gas pains that are not easily explained by other conditions can be signs of colorectal cancer. As tumors grow, they may cause blockages in the colon, leading to discomfort.
Feeling of Incomplete Bowel Movement
Individuals with colorectal cancer may feel like they have not fully emptied their bowels, even after using the restroom. This sensation, often accompanied by pain, is due to obstructions or irritation caused by the tumor.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Sudden, unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of many cancers, including colorectal cancer. Weight loss without a known cause can result from the cancer’s impact on metabolism or from the body’s reaction to the cancer.
Fatigue and Weakness
Chronic fatigue, unrelated to activity level, can be another indication. Fatigue often results from blood loss over time, leading to anemia. Anemia due to blood loss in the gastrointestinal tract can cause weakness and a pale appearance.
Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Blood loss in the colon or rectum may lead to anemia, especially in cases where bleeding is slow or internal, making it harder to notice in stool. Iron-deficiency anemia can cause symptoms like shortness of breath, pale skin, and dizziness, which might prompt doctors to investigate potential bleeding sources, including the possibility of colorectal cancer.
Narrow Stools
A noticeable change in stool shape, such as consistently thin or ribbon-like stools, can be a sign of obstruction in the colon. While stool shape can change occasionally, a persistent alteration may indicate a narrowing of the colon due to tumor growth.
Persistent Urge to Defecate
Frequent, unproductive urges to have a bowel movement can be a symptom of colorectal cancer. This occurs when a tumor causes irritation in the bowel, leading to repeated contractions.
Nausea and Vomiting
Blockages in the colon caused by tumors can lead to nausea, vomiting, or difficulty keeping food down. This can occur when the cancer has grown enough to partially or fully obstruct the digestive tract, preventing proper passage of food and waste.
While these symptoms can also be associated with less serious gastrointestinal conditions, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation if they persist, especially if multiple symptoms occur together. Regular screenings, like colonoscopies, are highly recommended starting at age 50 (or earlier for those with a family history or other risk factors), as they can detect early-stage cancer or precancerous polyps, often before symptoms arise. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment and recovery in colorectal cancer cases.
If you experience any of these colon cancer symptoms and suspect colorectal cancer, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor may perform tests to diagnose colorectal cancer, such as a colonoscopy or a sigmoidoscopy. Treatment options vary depending on the stage of cancer and the patient’s overall health and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.
If you or someone you know is at risk for colorectal cancer, it’s important to get regular screenings and to talk to your doctor about your risk factors. Know the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer, and if you notice any, seek medical attention right away. With early diagnosis and treatment, colorectal cancer can be managed and even cured.
Different Types of Colorectal Cancer
The most common type of colorectal cancer is called adenocarcinoma. This type of cancer begins in the glands that line the inner walls of the colon and rectum. The cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body, including the liver and the lungs.
Colorectal cancer commonly arises from growths called polyps. Polyps can range from tubular, villous, traditional serrated adenomas (TSAs) to sessile serrated polyps (SSPs). All these types of polyps have a risk of becoming cancerous.
Inflammatory polyps and hyperplastic polyps are two other types of polyps. These polyps are usually not cancerous, but if a person has large (>1 cm) hyperplastic polyps, he/she may be recommended to have more frequent colorectal cancer screening.
It is important to stay informed about colorectal cancer and know the different types of polyps and how to reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake, increasing physical activity, and eating a healthy diet can all help lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
If a person is at a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer, they may also be recommended to have a screening test to detect precancerous polyps. It is important to understand the different types of colorectal cancer and the risk factors associated with the disease in order to reduce the risk of developing it. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or questions about colorectal cancer and to find out if you should be tested.
