Colorectal diseases affect the colon and rectum, two important parts of the digestive
system. These conditions can develop slowly, and in many cases, early symptoms are mild or
confusing. Because of embarrassment, fear, or lack
of awareness, people often ignore the signs for months or even years. This delay can make
treatment more complicated later.
Understanding the “symptoms of colorectal diseases” is the first step toward
early diagnosis and timely care. Not every symptom means a serious illness, but persistent or
unusual changes in bowel habits should never
be overlooked.
If you are experiencing ongoing changes in your bowel habits, bleeding, or discomfort, do not
delay seeking medical advice. Prof. Dr. Tariq Akhtar Khan offers experienced colorectal
care in Dhaka and can help identify
the cause early, guiding the right treatment at the right time.
Why colorectal symptoms are often ignored in Bangladesh?
In Bangladesh, many people ignore colorectal symptoms because
they assume the problem is minor. Bleeding or bowel changes are often blamed on piles or food
habits. Discomfort
may improve for a while, and early stages usually cause little pain, which leads to delayed
medical care.
Self-treatment is common
Symptoms are mistaken for piles or gas
Food habits are often blamed
Talking about bowel issues feels uncomfortable
Symptoms improve temporarily
Early stages cause little pain
Fear of medical tests delays consultation
Busy routines lead to postponement
Common 06 symptoms of colorectal diseases
Colorectal diseases include conditions such as piles,
fissures, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease,
infections, and colorectal cancer. The symptoms can vary depending on the cause,
but some warning signs are frequently reported.
Rectal bleeding is one of the most common and important symptoms. Blood may appear during bowel
movement, on toilet paper, or mixed with stool. It can be bright red or dark in color. Many
patients assume bleeding is always due to piles.
While piles are common, bleeding can also be linked to other colorectal conditions.
Changes in bowel habits that last for several weeks deserve attention. Constipation that
continues despite diet changes or common medicines may point to an underlying problem. Ongoing
loose stools without any infection also need attention.
Any sudden change in bowel habits, especially after the age of 40, should be checked by a
doctor.
03
Change in bowel movement pattern
A noticeable change in stool frequency, shape, or consistency is another key symptom. Some people
experience narrow or ribbon-like stools, while others feel an urgent need to pass stool without
relief. Feeling that the bowel does not
empty after using the toilet is also a common complaint in colorectal disorders.
04
Abdominal pain or cramping
Lower abdominal pain, discomfort, or cramping that keeps coming back can be linked to colon or
rectal conditions. The pain may worsen after meals or during bowel movements. While abdominal
pain is common in digestive problems, pain
that persists or gradually increases should be checked by a specialist.
05
Mucus in stool
Passing mucus with stool is not normal when it happens regularly. Mucus may appear white,
yellowish, or clear. It is often associated with inflammation in the colon or rectum. Occasional
mucus may not be serious, but repeated episodes
should not be ignored.
06
Unexplained weight loss and weakness
Losing weight without trying, along with ongoing fatigue or weakness, can indicate that the body
is not absorbing nutrients properly. These symptoms may appear in advanced colorectal
conditions. If weight loss is combined with bowel
symptoms, medical evaluation becomes even more important.
Early symptoms vs advanced symptoms of colorectal diseases
Early colorectal symptoms are usually small and easy to miss, while advanced symptoms are
stronger and harder to ignore. Understanding this difference helps people in Bangladesh seek
medical help earlier and reduce the risk of
serious problems.
Early symptoms
These symptoms are often subtle and easy to dismiss. However, early-stage
colorectal problems are usually easier to manage.
Advanced symptoms often indicate delayed diagnosis. Early consultation helps
prevent this stage.
Frequent or heavy rectal bleeding
Severe abdominal pain
Ongoing bowel obstruction symptoms
Significant weight loss and anemia
Symptoms that require immediate medical attention
Symptoms that require immediate medical attention are signs that should not be delayed or
ignored. In Bangladesh, people often wait too long to seek care, which can worsen their
condition. Some common symptoms should never be ignored,
even if they appear suddenly:
Continuous or heavy rectal bleeding
Severe abdominal pain with vomiting
Black or very dark stools
Sudden bowel habit changes in older adults
Ongoing constipation with abdominal swelling
Persistent diarrhea lasting several days
Unexplained weight loss with fatigue
Signs of anemia, such as dizziness or extreme weakness
Note: These symptoms require prompt evaluation by a
colorectal specialist.
Can colorectal disease symptoms be confused with piles?
Yes. This is one of the most common problems seen in clinical practice. Piles, fissures, and
other colorectal problems share similar symptoms such as bleeding, pain, and discomfort during
bowel movement.
The difference cannot always be identified by symptoms alone. Proper examination and, when
needed, diagnostic tests are the only reliable way to find the real cause.
When should you see a colorectal specialist in Bangladesh?
Early consultation saves time, cost, and stress. It also prevents minor issues from becoming
serious conditions. You should consult a colorectal specialist if:
Why is early diagnosis of colorectal disease important?
Early diagnosis of colorectal issues helps identify the problem before it becomes serious or
complicated. Many colorectal conditions can be treated more easily when detected early, often
without surgery.
Higher chances of recovery: When the problem is found early, treatment usually works
better. Many patients recover faster at this stage. Once the disease spreads, treatment
becomes more difficult, and results are not the
same.
Stops cancer before it starts: Most colorectal cancers do not appear suddenly. They
begin as small growths and grow slowly over time. Tests like a colonoscopy can catch these
early and remove them before cancer develops.
Simpler and safer treatment: In early stages, treatment is often simple. Sometimes
medicine is enough. Later stages may need big surgery or long treatments, which are harder
on the body.
Less physical and mental strain: Early care reduces long periods of pain and stress.
Patients do not need to visit hospitals again and again. Family pressure is also less.
Lower overall treatment cost: Early treatment usually costs less. Advanced disease
often needs repeated tests, longer hospital stays, and higher expenses.
Early stages often feel normal: Many people do not feel sick in the beginning.
Symptoms may be mild or not noticeable. Waiting for strong signs can mean the disease has
already grown.
Expert care for colorectal diseases | Prof. Dr. Tariq Akhtar Khan
Expert evaluation is important when dealing with colorectal problems. Prof. Dr. Tariq Akhtar Khan is a leading
colorectal surgeon in Dhaka, Bangladesh. With
more than 17 years of hands-on experience
in treating colorectal diseases, he has successfully performed thousands of anal, rectal, and
colorectal cancer surgeries.
Colorectal symptoms should never be ignored, even if they seem mild at first. Small changes in
bowel habits or occasional bleeding may be early signs of a problem inside the colon or rectum.
Early awareness, honest attention
to bodily changes, and timely consultation can protect long-term health. If something feels
unusual, it is always better to check than to wait.
Get safe and effective APC & formalin therapy for radiation proctitis in Bangladesh from colorectal surgeon Professor Dr. Tariq Akhtar Khan. Book an appointment today!
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