Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, can easily go unnoticed in its early stages. The symptoms are often mild or confused with minor health complaints.
But catching it early can make all the difference. Here are 10 signs that may appear harmless but could be warning you of something much more serious.
Changes in Bowel Habits
Persistent constipation, diarrhea, or frequent urges to use the toilet shouldn’t be brushed off. If your usual rhythm changes and doesn’t return to normal, it could signal something deeper going on in your digestive tract.
Blood in Stool
Red or dark blood in your stool is never something to ignore. It’s often blamed on hemorrhoids, but repeated bleeding or blood paired with other changes should prompt further examination.
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Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without trying may sound like a bonus—but if there’s no clear reason for it, your body may be reacting to a hidden illness, such as bowel cancer disrupting nutrient absorption or increasing metabolic demands.
Constant Fatigue
If you feel drained every day, even with rest and sleep, it might be more than just a busy life. Internal bleeding from bowel cancer can lead to anemia, which leaves you feeling weak and tired all the time.
A Lump in the Abdomen or Rectum
A persistent lump or swelling in the lower abdomen or rectal area might be a sign of a tumor. While it could be something benign, it always requires professional investigation.
Abdominal Pain and Cramping
Ongoing pain or cramping in the belly that doesn't resolve with diet changes or rest should be taken seriously. It could be your body’s way of signaling something is wrong with your digestive system.
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Nausea and Vomiting
Feeling sick to your stomach repeatedly without any apparent cause may indicate a blockage in the intestine caused by a growing tumor. Don’t dismiss it as a minor bug if it keeps returning.
Frequent Bloating
If your belly feels swollen or bloated often, especially when you haven’t eaten much, it could be more than just digestive discomfort. Chronic bloating deserves medical attention.
Difficulty Passing Gas
Inability to pass gas or persistent pressure in your abdomen may signal that something is obstructing normal digestive flow—sometimes caused by a mass in the bowel.
Symptoms That Don’t Go Away
If any of these issues last more than three weeks, it’s time to talk to your doctor. Don’t wait. Early detection is key to improving outcomes and saving lives.
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Article Is Based on Information From Times of India
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