One of the most fatal cancer type is colorectal cancer. 140,000 people have been diagnosed with this type of cancer in 2016 alone. One of the main reasons why this cancer is so deadly is its late detection, which happens due to ignoring the warning signs.
Here are the most common warning signs that your body gives you when its fighting colorectal cancer.
Cramps
Even though they are very common with various other conditions, when they last for a longer period of time, it could be a potential colon cancer symptom.
Fatigue
Another symptom common for many health issues, which it is often overlooked as a colorectal cancer symptom. If you lead a healthy lifestyle and get enough sleep, but you still experience fatigue combined with other colorectal cancer symptoms, then it’s time you visit your doctor.
Fatigue and cancer have a strong link because the disease uses up all of your body’s energy. Moreover, fatigue due to colon cancer is usually accompanied by loss of blood.
Unexplained weight loss
If you experience an unintentional loss of 5% or more of your weight within 6 months, then it’s a clear sign that something is terribly wrong. This happens because cancer cells use the energy of the body as fuel, which affects the immune system and causes weight loss.
Colon cancer patients often have a big tumor blocking the colon, thus bowel movements are disrupted and weight loss occurs.
Irregular bowel movements
The colon polyps can turn cancerous over time and affect your bowel movements. They can also influence your large intestine function and cause stool changes.