10 signs of bowel cancer

 

Colorectal (Bowel) Cancer – 10 Key Symptoms, Causes, Prevention and Treatment

Colorectal cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a devastating disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Early recognition of the body’s signs is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment. In this article, you’ll discover the ten most common signs, as well as the main causes, prevention strategies, and treatment options.

10 symptoms of bowel cancer

1. Constipation and diarrhea.
The tumor disrupts the normal rhythm of the intestines for no apparent reason. The changes are permanent and may alternate between diarrhea and constipation, or make one symptom predominant.

2. Thin, elongated stools
In later stages, the tumor narrows the lumen and the stools become narrow, ribbon-like, or “crumpled.”

3. Feeling of incomplete bowel movements.
After defecation, it feels as if some of the contents have not been expelled, as if there is a feeling of heaviness inside. This most often occurs with larger stools.

4. Blood in the stool.
Streaks or drops of blood and/or mucus are observed. Their color varies from bright red to dark brown, depending on the location and characteristics of the tumor.

5. Abdominal Bloating
When the intestinal passage is blocked, stool is retained, causing a feeling of heaviness and bloating without any change in nutrition.

6. Abdominal pain and colic.
The accumulation of contents causes prolonged cramps and pain with no apparent cause.

7. Unmotivated weight loss.
At a more advanced stage of the disease, the tumor “steals” energy and the body can lose about 5 kg in six months without changing its diet.

8. General weakness
The combination of weight loss and high energy expenditure causes constant fatigue that is not explained by lifestyle.

9. Heaviness or pain in the anal region:
If the pain is located in the distal part of the rectum, it manifests itself as pain and a feeling of pressure during defecation. It is often accompanied by blood in the stool.

10. Nausea and vomiting.
Intestinal obstruction disrupts digestion and leads to persistent nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, which do not improve with diet.

Important:  Colorectal cancer begins asymptomatically. Annual checkups with a gastroenterologist are essential for early detection.

Causes and risk factors

• Hereditary predisposition (family history of colorectal cancer)

• Diet high in saturated fat and low in fiber; excessive alcohol consumption; smoking

• Sedentary lifestyle and obesity

• Age – risk increases after 50 years

Prevention

• Choose a menu with fruits, vegetables and a high fiber content

• Maintain regular physical activity

• Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol

• Schedule screening tests (e.g., colonoscopy) – especially if there is a family history

This article is provided for informational purposes only. Avoid self-medication and always consult a qualified healthcare professional before applying any information contained in this text. The editorial team does not guarantee any results and disclaims any liability for any damage resulting from its use.