5 Alarming Red Flags That Scream Colon Cancer Might Be Present

Your colon is essential for digestion and overall well-being, but issues can arise long before obvious symptoms appear. Many serious conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer, often develop quietly, making early detection crucial. Paying attention to subtle changes in your body can help catch potential problems before they become severe. Here are five warning signs that may indicate colon issues—and why you shouldn’t ignore them.

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A TikToker opened up about her experience.

TikToker @radwah.oda, Radwah Oda, recently went viral after sharing her colon cancer diagnosis in an effort to raise awareness about symptoms she initially overlooked. She encouraged viewers to listen to their bodies and seek medical attention if something feels wrong. “If you have any of these symptoms, please don’t panic, but do see a doctor. Advocate for yourself,” she urged.

Although colon cancer is more common in older adults, it can develop at any age, often without noticeable symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. Spotting the warning signs early can be crucial for successful treatment.

1. Narrow stool

A lesser-known warning sign of colon cancer is a change in stool shape. While occasional narrow stools aren’t usually a cause for concern, consistently thin or pencil-like stools may signal a blockage in the colon, potentially caused by a tumor or other obstruction.

This occurs when something restricts the normal flow of waste, making it harder for stool to pass through properly. If you regularly notice thin stools, it’s essential to see a doctor to rule out any serious health issues.

2. Frequent bowel movements

Frequent trips to the bathroom aren’t always a cause for concern, but a sudden increase—especially with changes in stool consistency or urgency—could signal an underlying issue.

In some cases, colon cancer can cause diarrhea, while others may feel a constant urge to go but struggle to pass stool. These disruptions occur when a tumor affects normal bowel function. If you notice persistent changes in your bathroom habits without an obvious explanation, it’s important to consult a doctor.

3. Constantly feeling tired

Feeling exhausted all the time, even after a full night’s sleep, may be more than just normal fatigue. This persistent tiredness doesn’t improve with rest and is often accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath. If you’re constantly feeling drained without a clear cause, it’s important to look into potential underlying health concerns, including issues related to the colon.

4. Pain in the lower left abdomen

Radwah Oda shared that one of the first symptoms she ignored was pain on the lower right side of her body, just beneath her breast. Believing her bra was too tight, she brushed off the discomfort for months, unaware that it could be a sign of something more serious.

A tumor in the colon can cause an obstruction, blocking the passage of stool and resulting in intense pain, often localized on the lower left side of the abdomen. If you experience persistent pain or changes in bowel habits, it’s essential to seek medical advice rather than ignoring these potential warning signs.

5. Abdominal bloating

Persistent bloating isn’t just an annoying digestive issue—it can be a sign of something more serious. Colon cancer, for example, can cause blockages in the intestines, leading to gas buildup, swelling, and discomfort.

While many people brush off bloating as a minor problem, if it becomes frequent, painful, or doesn’t improve with dietary changes, it’s important to consult a doctor. In some cases, bloating may be caused by a tumor disrupting normal digestion, which makes early detection crucial.

It’s always best to consult a doctor if you notice any changes in your health. Sometimes, it may simply be a deficiency in essential nutrients that can be easily corrected.