Initial Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a disease that progresses slowly and is highly unnoticeable. However, early diagnosis and medication for this type of cancer is very important. Having knowledge of the symptoms of colon cancer can be a good way to avoid the fatality of the disease through earlier treatment.

It is not easy to discover if one has colon cancer. This is why doctors advice people over 50 years old to undergo colonoscopy. Even if the results show negative signs for cancer, recurrent examinations every after ten years is also recommended. But if the findings yield a possibility for cancer - even if the chance is small - the patient should submit to colonoscopy every two years.

An early symptom of colon cancer that is often overlooked is excess gas. If you feel bloated and your stomach literally hardens after eating, then this may be a sign of a tumor growing within your system and blocking the path of the waste materials in your body. You may also suffer constipation due to the blockage and this will eventually lead to constant stomach or abdominal pains. Diarrhea and dehydration can also occur due to changes in bowel habits. If your bowel habits remain abnormal for more than two weeks, then this could already be an indication of colon cancer. These pains can be accompanied by swelling.

Bloody stools can also be indication of colon cancer. However, this symptom can also signify other health problems such as UTI or anal fissures. Blood in stools should not be disregarded because it often leads to more complicated diseases if not consulted to a doctor immediately.

Another possible sign of colon cancer is anemia. The type of anemia closely related to cancer is hemorrhage or excessive bleeding. Hemorrhage can be a side effect of past or current medication but if you suddenly acquired the sickness, you may be advised to undergo series of check ups to ensure that you don't have any other ailments.

You may also find your weight abruptly decreasing even if you are not making any effort in dieting. Furthermore, you will start losing appetite and will feel nauseated usually after a meal. These symptoms are similar to other less harmful diseases but if they continue after 24 hours or after medication, you should now seek more extensive diagnosis.

Diagnoses for colon cancer often include a stool test - both stool blood test and stool DNA test; Sigmoidoscopy - examination of the lower colon only; and Colonoscopy - examination of the entire colon. Colonoscopy is the most recommended diagnosis and the most accurate amongst the three. This method uses a thin tube with a camera on one end. The tube is inserted through the rectum and the camera captures the internal appearance of the colon to check for possible tumor growth and any other irregularities. These diagnostic procedures have increased the survival rights of cancer-inflicted people but may no longer be able to help once the cancer has already advanced to higher stage. Abrupt diagnosis after all coincides with abrupt treatment. So if you are experiencing any of these early symptoms of colon cancer, then it is best to contact a doctor now.