Symptoms of colon cancer: how to recognize it

0

The complex structure and functioning of the digestive system can make it difficult to detect symptoms of colon cancer (colorectal cancer). Many symptoms can indicate this type of cancer, infections, or inflammatory bowel diseases – these are the first signals to see a doctor and undergo an examination.

The symptoms of colon cancer in men and women are the same. List of symptoms that include the following:

• Changes in bowel habits if they last more than a few days: constipation, diarrhea;
• Cramping and bloating;
• Feeling of fullness due to tumor growth;
• Blood in stool;
• Unexplained weight loss;
• Fatigue;
• Shortness of breath.

Factors that may increase the risk of developing colon cancer:

• Colorectal polyps or inflammatory bowel disease;
• Certain inherited gene mutations (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer);
• Age;
• Type 2 diabetes;
• Belonging to certain ethnic groups (African Americans).

Reduce the chance of developing cancer colon cancer can be prevented by making lifestyle changes, including changing your eating habits.

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), a diet high in red meat or processed meat increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer.