Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the US.People over the age of 50 make up most of the cases.At the beginning, colon cancer has few symptoms.If you experience symptoms of colon cancer, try not to worry, since they can mimic other conditions.Do see your doctor right away.Regular medical exams and screenings are the best way to detect colon cancer early.
Step 1: Pay attention to the blood in your stool.
It's a good idea to go to the doctor if you have rectal bleeding that doesn't seem to be related to hemorrhoids or a tear.It is important to get your doctor's opinion even if you only notice a small amount on your toilet paper.A common symptom of colon cancer is blood in the stool.Your stool can be either bright red or dark because of the blood in it.You can make your stool look black by bleeding from high up.If you don't know if you see blood or not, contact your doctor.A bad odor can be caused by blood in your stool.Talk to your doctor if you notice a change in the smell of your stool.
Step 2: There are changes in your bowel movements.
It's something to look into if you are having intermittent idiosyncrasy.People with colon cancer can have long, narrow stools.You might feel like you still need to go after having a bowel movement.If you have symptoms that last longer than 3-4 days, talk to your doctor.You should pay attention to the patterns you notice.Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice a change in how often you go to the bathroom, or a difference in your stool consistency.These symptoms are not indicative of colon cancer.Irritable bowel syndrome, as well as a host of other medical conditions, have similar symptoms.
Step 3: Be aware of abdominal pain.
The uncomfortable changes you might experience in your bowel movements go along with these symptoms.If you have abdominal pain that doesn't seem to be related to anything else, you should see your doctor.You could also experience pain in the vagina.These symptoms are shared by many other illnesses, so they don't mean you have colon cancer.It's a good idea to have them checked out.
Step 4: You should watch for changes in appetite and weight.
People with colon cancer may experience a loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss.Colon cancer may be the reason why you don't like to eat full meals.If your weight seems to slide down without effort on your part, pay attention to it.It is normal for your weight to change a lot.If you lose 10 pounds over the course of 6 months or less for no obvious reason, make an appointment with your doctor.
Step 5: If you are fatigued, make a note of it.
This is a common symptom of many types of cancer.If you feel tired and weak, you should see your doctor right away.When you rest, fatigue doesn't get better.
Step 6: If you have any symptoms of colon cancer, call your doctor.
Set up an appointment with your doctor if you have any symptoms of colon cancer.They can run tests to look for signs of cancer or other conditions that can cause the same symptoms.The symptoms of colon cancer can be mimicked by other conditions.
Step 7: Discuss your health history and risk factors with your doctor.
Your doctor can determine if you have colon cancer by telling you about your risk factors.Most people who get colon cancer are over the age of 50.There are other factors that can play a part.Being African American is included.African Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with colon cancer.There is a personal history of colon cancer.Lynch syndrome is an inheritable syndrome that can lead to colon cancer.Leading a sedentary lifestyle.It is possible to reduce your risk by getting more exercise.A high fat diet is good for you.Changing your diet to include more fruits and vegetables and less fat and meat can help reduce your risk.There are people with diabetes or obese.Smoking and drinking.
Step 8: If your doctor recommends them, you should get regular screenings.
Regular screening tests after the age of 50 is the best way to detect colon cancer.These screenings can help determine if there are any growths.One or more of the following procedures will be performed by the doctor to determine if you have colon cancer.There are genetic cancer markers in your stool.This test can detect precancerous growths in your colon, which increases your chances of preventing the cancer or catching it early.A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure in which a lighted instrument is used to look for growths in the rectum and lower colon.A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a colonoscope is used to examine the entire colon for cancer or precancerous growths.A virtual colonoscopy is a type of x-ray that shows growths on the colon.
Step 9: Discuss your treatment options if you are positive for colon cancer.
Getting a cancer diagnosis is frightening.There are a variety of treatment options to help fight cancer and manage symptoms.Discuss the risks and benefits of different treatments with your doctor.The right treatment for you depends on your overall health and how advanced the cancer is.If you have a small, early stage colon cancer, you may be able to have it removed by your doctor.Chemo, radiation therapy, or surgical removal of part of your colon are possible additional treatments for colon cancer.Your doctor can recommend therapists or support groups that specialize in helping cancer patients and their families if you are struggling emotionally.Don't hesitate to reach out to your loved ones as well.