Early Signs of Colon Cancer:
What Are The Symptoms?

Becoming aware of the early signs of colon cancer can literally save your life. In the early stages of the disease, colon cancer is very treatable and the chance of surviving is extremely high.

If you can detect it early enough you will almost always survive and if detected at its earliest you require nothing more than a small incision to remove the tumor.

Knowing the symptoms that your body can show in the early stages is therefore very important.

The best thing you can do is get regular colorectal cancer screening or testing. The American Cancer Society says that regular screening can, in many cases, prevent the disease altogether.

Most of the early signs are likely to be caused by conditions other than colorectal cancer. If you have any of these problems, it is still recommended that you talk to your doctor and make sure that it isn't serious.

Here is a list of some of the early signs of colon cancer...

1. Change in Bowel Habits
   If you suddenly start experiencing diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools that last for prolonged periods of time, it might be an indication of the early stages of colon cancer. Remember that diarrhea and constipation are extremely likely to be caused by other factors than cancer.
   
   
2. Cramping or Pain
   Cramping or pain in the abdominal area might signify the early stages of cancer. Any pain that persists should be looked into.
   
   
3. The Need to Have a Bowel Movement
   If you have the need to have a bowel movement and are not relieved once you have one, you might be looking at something abnormal, especially if you've never experienced this problem before.
   
   
4. Rectal Bleeding
   This is tricky because it can easily be mistaken for hemorrhoids. The reason is because it is often hemorrhoids, so it is hard to know when to see a doctor. Bleeding will often only be occasional and most likely hard to spot. If you see blood in the stool and are concerned, contact your doctor immediately.
   
   
5. Weakness & Fatigue
   Feeling sluggish and weak can be a symptom that something is wrong. If you normally feel full of energy and suddenly start to feel weak and low on energy, consider going for a check-up if you can't find the problem on your own.

Remember to look for anything abnormal. If you've never experienced one of these symptoms before and it suddenly arises and persists for a prolonged period of time, go and see your doctor!