Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is the type of cancer that begins in the colon, also known as the large intestine. It can also be referred to as rectal cancer, the type of cancer that starts at the rectum; because the two types of cancer are similar to each other in features.

Let’s understand the common symptoms of colon cancer.

Early warning signs or symptoms
Polyps are the first signs of most kinds of cancers, and thus when any polyps appear on the body, one must have them screened or removed immediately. The early symptoms of colon cancer include sudden and undefined weight loss and narrow stools. Apart from these, other symptoms that could appear in colon cancer include rectal bleeding, a feeling that you have to empty bowel, but nothing passes, also known as tenesmus, and iron deficiency. Apart from this, one could also experience abdominal pain, which persists over time. Another symptom is the feeling of fatigue or weakness in the body.

It has been observed that people do not experience a lot of symptoms during the very earlier stages. However, depending on the size of cancer and its exact location within the large intestine, the symptoms can vary from person to person.

Local symptoms of colon cancer
Local symptoms are those that have not yet spread to different parts of the body, apart from the colon and rectum. Some of the common symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, and other changes in bowel habits. Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool is one of the major symptoms here, which can be accompanied by abdominal bloating or cramps. A feeling that bowel is not emptying is a common symptom, and stools are thinner than usual. Any of these symptoms experienced over a prolonged period should be taken seriously. A visit to the doctor is a must if any of these symptoms are experienced.

Systematic symptoms of colon cancer
Systematic symptoms are symptoms that affect the entire body, and these also come under the category of common symptoms of colon cancer. The impact is now beyond the digestive tract, and overall health deteriorates. Unexplained loss of appetite is one of the main and noticeable symptoms, which will be accompanied by sudden weight loss. In addition to this, other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and the possibility of jaundice. Colon cancer also results in iron deficiency or anemia, and all of these combined can lead to weakness and fatigue.

All symptoms completely depend on the size of the tumor and its spread from the colon to other parts of the body. It is advisable that one must see the doctor as soon as the first symptoms appear so that the spread can be contained and treatment can be more efficient.