Bowel cancer, a term encompassing cancers affecting the large bowel, manifests through these initial indicators.
Colorectal cancer, commonly referred to as bowel cancer, ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. It encompasses cancers originating in the large bowel, with nomenclature varying based on the specific site of origin. The majority of individuals diagnosed with bowel cancer are over 60 years old, underscoring the heightened relevance of symptoms with advancing age, particularly if they persist despite initial treatments.
While the precise cause of bowel cancer remains elusive, several risk factors elevate susceptibility, including age, poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyle, familial predisposition, and obesity. Treatment approaches for bowel cancer entail a tailored combination of therapies contingent upon the tumor’s precise location within the bowel and its extent of spread. The editorial team at Healthonlyforyou consulted with Dr. Anadi Pachaury, Consultant in Surgical Oncology at HCMCT Manipal Hospitals, Dwarka, to shed light on the warning signs indicative of bowel cancer.
Indicators of colorectal cancer
Many individuals may not exhibit any symptoms during the early stages of colorectal cancer. Hence, it’s highly imperative to undergo screening after reaching the age of 45, or even earlier, particularly if there’s a family history of this cancer type. Occasional symptoms are quite common, but if you observe persistent changes lasting more than a few weeks, consulting a gastroenterologist is recommended. Here are the five initial warning signs of colorectal cancer:
1. Rectal bleeding
Rectal bleeding demands attention and should not be dismissed lightly, as it often signifies an underlying medical issue. Whether you notice bright red blood or dark, tarry stools, these can indicate the presence of blood. Promptly reporting this symptom to a doctor is crucial for thorough diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
2. Alterations in bowel patterns
Modifications in bowel habits, encompassing constipation, diarrhea, or any deviation in stool consistency, such as narrowing, serve as additional early indicators of bowel cancer. These alterations in bowel function represent one of the most prevalent symptoms associated with this disease.
3. Unexpected reduction in body weight
Significant, unexplained weight loss can signify various underlying issues, underscoring the importance of consulting a doctor for evaluation. Unintended weight loss could potentially serve as a warning sign for bowel cancer. Individuals may experience reduced appetite and weight loss due to bloating, prompting further investigation.
4. Fatigue
Fatigue emerges as a cautionary signal for colorectal cancer and ranks among the prevalent side effects of its treatment. Its onset is unpredictable, unrelated to tumor type, treatment modality, or disease stage. Typically abrupt, fatigue does not correlate with physical exertion, nor does it alleviate with rest or sleep.
5. Abdominal pain
Persistent pain and bloating in the abdomen should be taken seriously. However, there’s no need to panic immediately, as stomach discomfort can have various causes. If you experience abdominal pain along with other potential symptoms of bowel cancer, like cramps or unusual bowel habits, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. The pain in the abdomen might range from mild to severe and may not be constant.
Often, these symptoms are quite common, and most individuals may not have bowel cancer. For instance, rectal bleeding is frequently due to hemorrhoids, while changes in bowel habits or stomach discomfort can result from dietary factors. Nevertheless, if you’ve been experiencing a combination of symptoms persistently, it’s advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.