Is It Colon Cancer? Key Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

In today’s article, we’ll discuss colon cancer: what it is, the key signs and symptoms, and why these occur. Colon cancer, also known as colorectal carcinoma, affects the large intestine and/or rectum.

Understanding Colon Cancer

The gastrointestinal (GI) system consists of the esophagus leading to the stomach, the small intestines, and finally the large intestine, which includes the ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid colon, ending at the rectum and anus. Cancer can develop in any part of the large intestine or rectum, typically arising from a polyp that has been growing over several years.

Colon cancer is the fourth most common cancer and can develop due to various risk factors. Approximately 5% of cases are linked to genetic conditions such as familial adenomatous polyposis and Lynch syndrome. Additionally, colon cancer is the leading cause of large bowel obstruction in adults, contributing to many of its symptoms.

Key Risk Factors

1. Age: The risk increases significantly after age 50.
2. Diet: A long-term low-fiber diet can contribute to risk.
3. Family History: A first-degree relative diagnosed before age 50 increases susceptibility.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Conditions like ulcerative colitis heighten the risk.

Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer can often be asymptomatic, particularly in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they typically indicate advanced disease and may include the following:

1. Abdominal Pain

• Most common presenting symptom.
• May result from partial or complete intestinal obstruction or tumor invasion into surrounding tissues.

2. Changes in Stool

• Stool may become thinner (pencil-shaped) due to the tumor obstructing its passage.

3. Altered Bowel Habits

• Diarrhea alternating with constipation is more common in left-sided tumors.
• These changes can resemble irritable bowel syndrome, but in patients over 50, they raise red flags.

4. Weight Loss and Fatigue

• Cancer-induced anorexia and high metabolic demand contribute to unexplained weight loss.
• Fatigue is common due to cancer-related changes or anemia.

5. Bleeding

• Hematochezia: Bright red blood in stool, typically from left-sided tumors.
• Melena: Black, tarry stool, more common with right-sided tumors due to digested blood.
• Occult Bleeding: Hidden blood loss, leading to iron-deficiency anemia with symptoms like pallor, shortness of breath, and weakness.

6. Abdominal Mass

• A tumor, especially in the right lower quadrant, may become palpable.

7. Large Bowel Obstruction

• Symptoms include constipation, obstipation (complete stool and gas blockage), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distension.
• Severe cases may result in bowel perforation, leading to infection and fever.

8. Rectal Symptoms

• Tenesmus (persistent urge to defecate) and a sensation of incomplete evacuation, often linked to rectal tumors.

9. Signs of Metastasis

• Liver: Symptoms of liver disease due to spread via the portal vein.
• Lungs: Breathing difficulties or asymptomatic spread via the inferior vena cava.
• Lymph Nodes: Supraclavicular lymphadenopathy may indicate lymphatic spread.

Conclusion

Colon cancer can present with diverse and sometimes subtle symptoms. Early detection is vital, particularly in individuals with risk factors. If you notice any concerning changes or symptoms, consult a healthcare provider promptly.