Content

• Steps
• Advice

Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is the second leading cause of death in the United States. It occurs in both men and women, including all races and ethnic groups. More than 90% of cases are in people over 50 years old. Unfortunately, at the onset stage, colon cancer has no or very few symptoms. Don't worry if you have colon cancer symptoms, as the symptoms may mimic many other conditions. However, you still need to see a doctor as soon as possible. The best way to find out early is to have regular check-ups and screening tests.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Recognize the symptoms of colon cancer

1. 

   Watch for blood in the stool. If you have bleeding in your rectum that doesn't seem to be from hemorrhoids or it's torn, you should see your doctor. Even if there is only a little bit of blood on the toilet paper, you will need to see your doctor for a checkup. Blood in the stool is a common symptom of colon cancer.
   • Bloody stools may be bright red or darker than usual. If the bleeding site is higher in the intestine, the stools may turn black. If you are not sure if there is blood in your stool, contact your doctor for peace of mind.
   • Blood in the stool can also cause an unpleasant odor. If you notice that your stools have a distinctly different smell, ask your doctor as soon as possible.

2. 

   
   
   Watch for changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation. If you have ever had episodes of diarrhea and constipation, that's something to keep in mind. People with colon cancer may have long, narrow stools, or have a feeling of wanting to have a bowel movement even after they have just finished. Let your doctor know if you experience any of these symptoms and last longer than 3-4 days.
   • Follow the rules of your bowel habits. If things seem different or if anything worries you, regardless of the frequency of the bowel movements or the texture of the stool, make an appointment with your doctor.
   • These symptoms are not necessarily a sign that you have colon cancer. Irritable bowel syndrome and a number of other illnesses have similar symptoms.

3. 

   
   
   Pay attention to abdominal pain and bloating. These symptoms are often accompanied by unpleasant bowel changes that may occur. If you have pain in your abdomen and your bloating doesn't seem to have another cause, see your doctor.
   • You may also experience pelvic pain.
   • As above, these symptoms can occur in other diseases, so it is unlikely that you have colon cancer. However, you should still see your doctor for a checkup.

4. 

   
   
   Notice any changes in weight or appetite. People with colon cancer may experience loss of appetite, possibly unexplained weight loss. If you often do not want to finish meals and no longer crave your favorite foods, it is possible the culprit is colon cancer. Pay attention to changes in weight, especially if you have steadily lost weight without trying to lose it.
   • It is normal for a little bit of weight fluctuations sometimes. However, if you have lost 5 kg or more in less than 6 months for no apparent reason, make an appointment with your doctor.

5. 

   Notice if you are unusually tired. This is a common symptom of many types of cancer, including colon cancer. If you experience persistent fatigue and weakness with other symptoms of colon cancer, seek immediate medical attention.
   • Notice that the feeling of fatigue or exhaustion doesn't get better even after resting.
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Method 2 of 2: Find a medical diagnosis

1. 

   Call your doctor if you have symptoms of colon cancer. If you have any of the symptoms of colon cancer, make an appointment right away. They may perform tests to look for signs of cancer or rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.
   • Other conditions with colon cancer-like symptoms include gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and hemorrhoids.

2. 

   Talk to your doctor about your health history and risk factors. Tell your doctor about your risk factors to help them determine if you may have colon cancer. Age is the leading risk factor, as the majority of colon cancer patients are over 50 years old. However, there are many other factors that also pose a high risk. These factors include:
   • Be African American. African Americans have a higher risk of colon cancer than other races.
   • Have a history of colon cancer or polyps.
   • There are genetic syndromes that can lead to colon cancer, such as familial polyp syndrome and hereditary non-polyps colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome).
   • Have a sedentary lifestyle. Exercising more can help reduce this risk.
   • Eat less fiber and more fat. You can reduce this risk by changing to a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, while reducing fat and meat.
   • Have diabetes or obesity.
   • Smoking and drinking alcohol.

3. 

   Periodic screening tests if recommended by a doctor. The best way to prevent or detect colon cancer early is by routine screening tests after age 50. These tests can help detect cancerous or precancerous tumors. Your doctor will perform one or more of the following procedures to determine if you have colon cancer:
   • Fecal occult blood test (FOBT), to find blood in the stool.
   • Tests hidden DNA in the stool for genetic markers of cancer in the stool. This test can detect precancerous tumors in the colon, thereby increasing the chances of preventing or detecting cancer early.
   • A sigmoidoscopy, in which a light-fitted device called a sigmoidoscope is used to check for polyps and tumors in the rectum and end of the large intestine.
   • Colonoscopy, where the doctor will use a colonoscopy machine to examine the entire colon for cancerous and precancerous tumors and a biopsy is then taken if found.
   • Colonoscopy or double contrast barium colonoscopy (DCBE), another form of x-ray to look for colon polyps and tumors.

4. 

   Talk to your doctor about treatment options if you test positive for colon cancer. You can be very scared and confused when you are diagnosed with cancer. Fortunately, there are many different treatment options available to fight cancer and control your symptoms. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of different methods.
   • The right treatment will depend on your overall health and the growth or spread of cancerous cells. For example, if the cancer is small and in its early stages, the doctor may surgically remove the cancer during colonoscopy.
   • With colon cancer more advanced, you may need additional treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery to remove part of the colon.
   • If you have a mental breakdown, your doctor can refer you to psychotherapists or support groups to help cancer patients and their families. Do not hesitate to seek out loved ones for help.
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Advice

• There is scientific evidence that routine colon cancer screening (starting at age 50) helps reduce death rates from colon cancer. Talk to your doctor about the tests that are best for you.
• The majority of colorectal cancers arise from polyps (abnormal tumors) in the large intestine or rectum. These tumors can progress to cancer over a long period of time.
• If you are at risk of developing colon cancer, talk to your doctor about measures you can take to reduce your risk.In addition to screening tests, you may be advised to make lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier, being more active, or avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol.