Colon Cancer Warning Signs:
What Symptoms Are Dangerous?

Colon cancer warning signs should not be taken lightly.

Keep in mind that many of the warning signs often are symptoms of other problems.

These other problems are usually not very harmful at all. So don't get yourself worked up if you identify some of the problems. If you are concerned, then definately see a doctor!

Colon cancer kills 50,000 each year in the U.S. It is the second leading cause of cancer related death among men and women.

Did you know that every 9.3 minutes someone dies from colon cancer?

It is often said that if colon cancer can be detected in the initial stages, it can actually be treated.

In most of the cases, colon cancer is formed as a benign growth or a polyp in the colon, which is known as an adenomatous polyp. Over years, these typical polyps can grow in number and size, thus increasing the associated risk of cancer.

If these growths are removed on time, which can be done in during colonoscopy, the development of colon cancer can be prevented. They must be removed during the early stage of development.

Colonoscopy is the process that can be used for the removal of a polyp.

Colonoscopy requires mild sedation. It is an easy process, far easier than you imagine and you usually recover very fast from it.

Sometimes, people who are about to get colon cancer can show no signs or symptoms during the initial stages.

If symptoms appear will depend on the size, location and spread of the polyp.

Bloody stools are one of the most common colon cancer warning signs. However, some other problems can also cause blood in your stool.

Bright red colored blood can be noticed on the bathroom tissue sometimes; this is often caused due to minor tears, fissures or hemorrhoids.

Some foods like beets can also make your stools red.

Iron supplements and medications can contribute to black looking stools.

If you have persistent bloody stools and you feel something is wrong, contact your doctor immediately!

Some common colon cancer warning signs are:

1. Pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen.
   
2. A sudden change in your stool’s consistency that persists for weeks.
   
3. Hardness in the lower abdomen.
   
4. Prolonged diarrhea.
   
5. Obstruction in your bowel movements.
   
6. Persistent colon problems, usually chronic in nature, accompanied by extreme pain while passing stools.
   
7. Narrow stools.
   
8. Cramping and pain for long periods of time.
   
9. A sense of incomplete bowel movements.
   
10. Anemia or iron deficiency. This indicates that your colon is actually bleeding.
    
11. Blood in your stools.
    
12. Abrupt weight loss.

Remember that these are signs that something COULD be wrong. It isn't definite. I stress again that if you're going through something intense, then go see a doctor.

If you're constipated or just bloated which passes then it is probably nothing. Eat more fiber and eat healthier! :)