Colon cancer begins in the large intestine wherein small, non-cancerous clumps of cells called polyps develop. These can eventually turn malign and develop into cancer. Most of the symptoms of colon cancer can be mistaken for those of other diseases, which its diagnosis difficult. Hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases, and infection of the colon or the anus can all be signs of several conditions. However, there are certain signs to look out for.

Here are the telltale signs of colon cancer to be aware of

1. Rectal bleeding
   This is probably the most common warning sign of potential colon cancer. It’s important to observe your stools to know what’s happening. If you notice bloody stools or blood on the toilet paper, it’s a sign that something’s not right. Whether the blood in stools appears bright or dark, it’s a sign that you must consult with your doctor immediately. The bleeding will be more significant than that which is caused by hemorrhoids or an anal cut.
2. Passing narrow stools
   Stools are generally of a definitive size and firmness, indicating a healthy body. However, a significant change in your stool caliber involves the passing of much thinner stools. It’s a clear indication of a tumor in the colon. At the same time, watch out for other severe changes in your bowel habits like chronic constipation.
3. Anemia caused by iron deficiency
   When colon cancer develops, you’ll experience extreme levels of fatigue that’s difficult to explain. This is most likely the cause of iron deficiency or anemia. While you may not be aware of this condition, its important to get a blood test done where the results can point towards the presence or absence of colon cancer.
4. An urgent need to have a bowel movement
   A feeling of tenesmus, a condition where a recurrent inclination to empty the bowels, is common and one of the telltale signs of colon cancer. However, whenever you try to go, no stool passes. This strange sensation can be the result of a tumor inside the rectum that can possibly be the beginning of the condition.
5. Unexplained weight loss
   You might be eating your food normally as you’ve been doing all these years. However, colon cancer can drastically change the way your body absorbs food and converts it to energy. Your system will also not be able to absorb all the nutrients and can cause a sudden weight loss that is pretty unexplainable. It’s a strong reason to consider the probability of colon cancer.
6. Persistent abdominal discomfort, including cramps and gas
   A cancerous tumor causes a blockage or a tear in the colon that leads to severe pain with cramps. The abdominal discomfort can be dull or sharp and can signify the possibility of perforation, albeit very rarely. However, it’s a strong telltale sign of colon cancer when you also experience nausea and vomiting.

Other telltale signs of colon cancer

1. A persistent change in your bowel habits that you never experienced before. This can be alternating between diarrhea and constipation with significant changes in the consistency of the stools.
2. A complete loss of appetite even if you may not have had anything heavy or filling earlier.
3. Severe weakness and fatigue throughout the day in spite of not being physically active.