Colon cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths in the country. In the initial stage, the abnormal cells are present only in the inner lining of the colon. As the disease progresses, the cells spread to the muscular layer, nearby and distant lymph nodes, even distant organs. The staging system helps doctors recommend a suitable treatment plan. The following early warning symptoms of colon cancer need medical attention but often go unnoticed:

1. Changes in bowel habits
Everyone experiences diarrhea and constipation once in a while, but if recent lifestyle or dietary changes do not seem to be the underlying cause, one should consider undertaking a cancer screening. Loose stools are a frequent occurrence in people with colon cancer. On the other hand, having less than three bowel movements a week means one has constipation, which is another early warning symptom of colon cancer. It is a common gastrointestinal complaint among patients.

2. Changes in stool consistency
The colon is directly connected to the rectum, so bowel problems are persistent in colon cancer patients. If there is blood in the stools and hemorrhoids or fissures are not diagnosed, it could indicate colon cancer. Stools are a good indicator of what is happening in the colon, and small, hard stools are red flags. Ribbon-like or thin stools can also indicate changes in the large intestine, and one should visit a doctor at the earliest if they notice these signs.

3. Bloating and persistent cramps
Constant urges to visit the bathroom and the need to have a bowel movement, along with a feeling of the bowel not being completely emptied, are standard early warning symptoms of colon cancer. The disease can also cause unexplained feelings of bloating or abdominal discomfort, and constant cramps are also common. While these symptoms may also be caused by other health conditions, it’s advisable to consult a doctor if they are persistent.

4. Anemia
Chronic rectal bleeding, which is common in people affected by colon cancer, could lead to iron deficiency or anemia, which can make one feel tired and develop pale skin. The tumors also release certain chemicals that stimulate the growth of new blood vessels. As the tumor increases in size and intensity, the vessels can burst and cause internal bleeding, which contributes to anemia.

5. Other symptoms
Unexplained or unintentional weight loss, fatigue, and tiredness are among the other early warning symptoms of colon cancer. Most of these symptoms are not very frequent, and they are often brushed aside as occurring due to other medical conditions or routine overwork. Even when multiple symptoms are present, doctors often presume them to manifest due to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). That said, observing multiple symptoms over a long period indicates the need for colon cancer screening.