Symptoms of colon cancer that people generally ignore

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Although it can be a fatal condition, there is still a possibility to cure it if discovered at an early stage. However, a lot of people have a tendency to ignore the signs of colon cancer until it has spread, which can make treatment more challenging. Here are some symptoms of colon cancer that people generally ignore:

Dr. Snita Sinukuma, Surgical Oncologist, Manipal Hospital, Kharadi-Pune, says, “It is very common to occasionally experience changes in bowel habits. However, in case this becomes frequent, and the person is suffering from persistent diarrhoea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency, it could be a sign of colon cancer.”

Unintentional weight loss can be a sign of several diseases, including colon cancer. It's crucial to see a doctor if the person has dropped a substantial amount of weight without altering the diet or exercise routine.


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Persistent abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort can be a symptom of many conditions, including colon cancer.

Although finding blood in your stool can be unsettling, many people brush it off as hemorrhoids or another harmless disease. However, it is often advised to see a doctor right away to have it examined.

Feeling tired or weak can be a symptom of many illnesses, including colon cancer. Therefore, it’s advisable to get your feelings of lethargy and weakness checked as it may be a sign of fatal health problems.

According to Dr. Sinukuma, Bleeding from the rectum or blood in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement may be a sign of colon cancer. Hemorrhoids or fissures may also lead to rectal bleeding but do not ignore it as there may be a bigger reason for this problem.

​Also Read: When should you get screened for colon cancer? Expert talks​

It is important to note that many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions as well, and not everyone with colon cancer will experience them. However, in case of experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor. With timely intervention, colon cancer is highly treatable.