Signs Of Colon Cancer: Do They Hurt?

In the United States, 140,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer every year, and over 50,000 people die from the disease according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, according to the CDC, colon cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer.

However, you maybe be wondering how that is the case. After all, if it is so easily preventable, then why do so many people die from it every year?

The unfortunate truth is that colon cancer is often a silent killer and that the most common early-stage symptoms don’t generally hurt very much and aren’t always a cause for concern on their own. More often than not, these symptoms can be mistaken for more benign issues.

The Most Common Symptoms Of Colon Cancer

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms below, particularly a combination of symptoms or a single symptom for an extended period of time, be sure to schedule a screening with your doctor, even if you do not have a history of cancer in your family or you’re not over the age of 50.

Early Symptoms of Colon Cancer:

• Rectal Bleeding
• Abdominal Bleeding
• Narrow Stools
• Changes in stool frequency or consistency
• Feeling like you cannot empty your bowels
• Anemia
• Jaundice
• Abdominal Pain
• Abdominal Cramping
• Nausea 
• Vomiting
• Loss of Appetite
• Weight Loss
• Bloating

Signs Of Colon Cancer: Do They Hurt?

As you can see from the list above, the symptoms of colon cancer don’t always hurt. More often than not, early symptoms are more of a slight annoyance and can be written off as having eaten spoiled food or experiencing stress. 

Many people do not have much pain associated with their colon cancer until it is too late. You should not wait until you are in pain to schedule a screening with your doctor if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms.

What To Do If You Have Symptoms Of Colon Cancer

Certainly, many other issues or diseases can cause similar symptoms as colon cancer. Some of these are pretty benign, while others may also require treatment by your doctor.

These diseases can be issues like hemorrhoids, Crohn’s disease, fissures, or tears in the anus, food poisoning, and more. Not all of these need a doctor’s intervention in order to be cured or healed, but some do. It is always best to get a doctor’s professional medical opinion if you have these symptoms in order to catch cancer at its earliest stages.

If you need more information or to find a healthcare professional who can help you schedule your screening, visit this guide. Getting expert care and advice is the best thing to do if you have symptoms of colon cancer.

What The Doctor Will Do

A doctor will likely perform a colonoscopy if you have symptoms of colon cancer. While this will screen for any early-stage polyps, the doctor will also be able to remove polyps during that very same procedure. Once you are confirmed to have polyps, you will have to schedule regular colonoscopies in order to ensure you stay healthy.

Don’t Be Afraid Of A Colonoscopy

While colonoscopies are something many patients fear having, they are very easy procedures that often only have slight discomfort associated with them. The important thing to do is to follow all the instructions the doctor gives you before your procedure in order to be properly prepared.

For instance, your doctor will tell you when to stop eating or drinking and might give you something that you need to take at a certain time. It is important that you follow all of these steps. 

Conclusion

While most signs of colon cancer do not cause pain, it is important to schedule a screening with your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms. If you are able to catch polyps early before cancer develops, you will be able to get an easy and fast treatment that keeps you healthy.