Cancer is among the deadliest diseases and, no doubt, if we have not paid attention to its primary signs and symptoms, recovering from the same will be impossible. The same is true with colon cancer.
As compared to previous times, right now, colon cancer is also among the most widespread cancers. People suffering from it notice the symptoms and approach the doctor promptly.
Well, here we are discussing the early warning signs and stages of colon cancer to notice so that you can get in touch with the doctor in a timely manner. Keep reading because this book will help you learn a lot about this condition in detail. We will also discuss the stages and diagnosis so that you can make up your mind to get in touch with the doctor.
Colon Cancer is a Cancer of the large intestine!
Colon cancer is cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. This is the part of the large intestine that is affected. These are responsible for making up the lower portion of the digestive system. It is also referred to as “colorectal cancer” and is among the third-most common types of cancer in the world. The symptoms and treatment are similar to other cancers. But there are some specific symptoms that indicate that you need to approach the medical oncologist for treatment as soon as possible.
Stages of Colon Cancer
Before identifying the early signs and symptoms, it is important to know the stages of colon cancer. Well, the stages range from stage 0 to stage 4. These are as follows:
Stage 0:
Stage 0 is the carcinoma in situ stages. The abnormal cells are in the inner lining of the colon and rectum only, and they are not showing their effect on any other organ. Also, these have not penetrated the lining either.
Stage 1:
Stage 1 is the condition where cancer comes out of the lining or mucosa. The colon and rectum grow into the muscle layer and it starts spreading to nearby lymph nodes as well. In some cases, it affects other parts of the body.
Stage 2:
Stage 2 is the condition where the cancer cells start to spread to the walls of the colon. From the walls, these also affect the nearby tissues and lymph nodes.
Stage 3:
Stage 3 is the condition when cancer cells have moved to lymph nodes and have not shown any effect on other parts of the body. In stage 3, the lymph nodes have a major effect, and it is also shown with the activity of the body.
Stage 4:
Stage 4 is the last stage, and the cancer cells have spread to other distant organs. This starts to show its effects on the liver or lungs as well.
Early warning signs and symptoms of colon cancer:
The early warning signs and symptoms of colon cancer that will help you to realize that this is the time to approach the doctor because there is something wrong with your colon are as follows:-
1. Changes in bowel habits:
The primary warning sign related to colon cancer is changing bowel habits. There is a possibility that the frequency and consistency of stools have changed. Also, along with that, you have the sudden urge to use the bathroom. The changes are so easy to notice that they also affect your regular lifestyle.
2. Changes in stools:
Changes in stool are very common. As we have already discussed, you will suffer from changes in bowel movement. The same will happen with the stool. These appear to be narrow or pencil-thin stools. Sometimes you feel like you are dealing with diarrhea.
3. Constipation:
Constipation is a common problem when the large intestine is not working properly and you are suffering from colon cancer. You will also face difficulties when you start using the washroom. In most cases, constipation leads to bloody stools.
4. Tired all the time:
When cancer cells occupy a place in your body, it also consumes all the energy as well. Well, you start feeling tired all the time, and sometimes you are not in the mood to engage in activities in the same mood as you used to engage previously. It also happens that when you are doing something, all of a sudden, you start feeling tired and drop the task in between.
5. Unexpected weight loss:
Unexpected weight loss is very common in cancer patients. When the part of the large intestine is affected, it can also lead to unexpected weight loss. People mostly have a complaint that they are doing fine but still losing weight. This calls for an emergency and probably there is something wrong with your body.
6. Constant abdominal pain:
Constant abdominal pain along with cramps is very common. Sometimes you are so uncomfortable that you are not even able to engage in things properly. The majority of people have the same pain at night because they are unable to sleep peacefully.
7. Blood in the stool:
Blood in the stool will also be noticeable. As you have studied, there are changes in the stool. The blood in stool is also a very common problem. In most cases, you will not be able to identify the actual cause behind it, but this is because the colon is not functioning properly.
8. Vomiting or nausea:
Feelings of nausea and vomiting are also very common. It happens that you have a sudden urge to puke whatever you had in the morning. Some people also complain that they are suffering from acidity issues due to the way they vomit things out. But if it is happening frequently, you need to approach the doctor immediately.
9. Changes in skin color:
Changes in skin color are also very common, and your skin appears to be pale in color. You will also see that it appears as if you have suffered from jaundice. But no, in this case, you are not suffering with jaundice. The colon’s improper functioning is responsible for it.
10. Bloating issues:
Bloating issues are also very common in people suffering from colon cancer. In most cases, people complain of unnecessary bloating and even the medications are not helping them out.
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