Colon Cancer Symptoms
| Guideline for Bangladeshi patients
Colon cancer is growing very fast in Bangladesh. Statistics show
that 70% of colon cancer patients are above 40, and 58% are men.
Especially the colon cancer rate is very high in urban areas due to
severe pollution and adulteration of food. So it's a matter of great
concern that we need to be aware of colon cancer.
The good news is that it can be treated successfully when diagnosed
early. That is why understanding the symptoms is so important. Many
people ignore the early signs because they seem mild or similar to
other digestive issues. But noticing unusual changes and seeking
timely medical advice can save lives.
In this blog, we will discuss the common symptoms of
colon cancer, how they
appear, and when you should visit a
colorectal specialist.
Colon cancer is a disease where abnormal cells grow
inside the large intestine and form a tumor. In most cases, it
begins with small, harmless polyps that slowly change over time.
When polyps are detected early during routine screening and removed
on time, the chance of colon cancer drops significantly. That’s why
finding the problem early is a key part of both prevention and
effective treatment.
Common colon cancer symptoms
Colon cancer does not always cause symptoms in the early stages. As
the condition progresses, some symptoms start to appear. We have
mentioned here the major symptoms of colon cancer:
Changes in bowel habits
One of the earliest signs is a sudden change in how you pass
stool. These may include:
Seeing blood in stool is a major warning sign. It can appear
as:
Bright red blood
Dark or black stool
Stool mixed with blood
Abdominal pain or discomfort
These symptoms may feel similar to regular digestive
discomfort, but if they last longer than usual, get checked.
Patients often feel:
Cramping
Sharp or dull abdominal pain
Bloating
Persistent gas
Unexplained weight loss
If you lose weight without changing your diet or exercise, it
may signal a deeper issue. Cancer can affect the body’s
ability to grow leading to sudden weight loss.
Persistent fatigue
Long-term tiredness or weakness may occur due to internal
bleeding or the body fighting a disease. If rest does not
improve your energy level, it is worth investigating.
Anemia (low hemoglobin)
Colon cancer can cause slow internal bleeding, leading to
iron-deficiency anemia. Symptoms include:
Weakness
Pale skin
Shortness of breath
Rapid heartbeat
When should you see a doctor?
If you notice ongoing changes in your bowel habits, blood in the
stool, or unexplained weakness, this is a sign to consult with a
doctor. Many people delay medical visits, assuming symptoms will go
away on their own. Early treatment can solve your problem easily.
Consult with a colorectal surgeon
if you notice the following issues:
Symptoms persist for more than two weeks
You notice blood in the stool
You have a family history of colon cancer
You are above 40 and experience new digestive changes
You have anemia with no clear cause
Colon cancer symptoms in the early stage
Early-stage colon cancer symptoms may be mild, such as:
Occasional bowel habit changes
Slight abdominal discomfort
Small amounts of blood in stool
Reduced appetite
Colon cancer symptoms in the later stages
As cancer progresses, symptoms can become more severe:
Severe abdominal pain
Complete bowel blockage
Significant bleeding
Weight loss
Severe fatigue
Nausea and vomiting
Risk factors of colon cancer | You should know
Several lifestyle and health-related factors can increase the
chances of developing colon cancer. Knowing these risks early helps
you take better preventive steps. Here are the key factors every
person should be aware of.
Get routine screening after age 40 or earlier if at risk
Get specialized colon cancer treatment in Bangladesh
Prof. Dr. Tariq Akhtar Khan is one of the
leading colorectal specialists in Bangladesh, known
for his expertise in diagnosing and treating colon and rectal
diseases with modern, evidence-based methods. He looks after
patients from the first screening and colonoscopy right through to
surgery, if and when it becomes necessary. Many patients choose him
because of his clear guidance, careful evaluation, and
patient-centered approach.
Early symptoms may include a change in bowel habits, mild
abdominal discomfort, or small amounts of blood in the stool.
These signs often appear slowly, so noticing them early is
important.
No, blood in stool can occur due to piles, fissures, or
infection. But if the bleeding keeps coming back or appears
without pain, you should get checked to rule out colon cancer.
If diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools continue for more
than two weeks, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. Persistent
changes can be an early sign of a colon problem.
Yes. Colon cancer can cause slow internal bleeding, leading to
low hemoglobin. This often results in tiredness, pale skin, or
shortness of breath.
Most symptoms develop gradually, not suddenly. People often
ignore early warning signs, so paying attention to small
digestive changes helps with early diagnosis.
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