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Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer can cause many symptoms. Warning signs to watch for are numerous. People who have any of the following symptoms should check with their doctor:

• A change in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation,
• Stools that are narrower than usual narrowing of the stool that lasts for more than a few days
• Frequent gas pains
• A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool (either bright red or very dark in color)
• Cramping or steady abdominal pain or general stomach discomfort (bloating, fullness)
• Decreased appetite
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Constant tiredness, weakness and fatigue
• Jaundice (yellow-green discoloration of the skin and white part of the eyes)
• Weight loss with no known reason

Other conditions such as infections, hemorrhoids, and inflammatory bowel disease can also cause these symptoms. But only a doctor can determine the cause of these symptoms. People who have any of these symptoms should see their doctor. It is important to talk to your doctor since finding colorectal cancer early makes successful treatment more likely. It is also possible to have colon cancer and not have any symptoms. If the doctor suspects colon cancer, more tests will need to be done. The doctor may refer them to a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating digestive problems (a gastroenterologist).