5 Everyday Issues That Might Actually Signal Colon Cancer

The colon plays a crucial role in digestion and overall well-being. However, early symptoms of problems are often mild or absent, which makes them easy to overlook. Recognizing key signs can help detect issues such as inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal cancer sooner. Here are five symptoms worth knowing.

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Stool consistency

Healthy stools are usually cylindrical, sausage-like in shape, about the width of a banana, and between 4 to 8 inches. When flushed, they should keep their shape and have the right amount of water and nutrients. A consistency similar to soft ice cream is ideal. In addition, having a healthy, normal bowel system means having a bowel movement every one to three days.

If your stools are sausage-shaped with cracks on the surface, you may be experiencing mild constipation due to a poor diet or sitting for a long time. These stools are common in cases of functional constipation (caused by diet or lifestyle) and may indicate that the stool has been in the bowel for about seven days before it is eliminated.

While occasional narrow stools are usually harmless, persistently thin or pencil-like stools could indicate a narrowing of the colon due to a tumor or obstruction.

This change happens when something restricts the normal passage of waste, making it difficult for stool to pass through as usual. If you frequently notice thin stools, it’s important to consult a doctor to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

Feeling constantly tired

Feeling constantly tired, even after sleeping well, can be more than normal fatigue. This type of exhaustion doesn’t go away with rest and may come with dizziness or trouble breathing. If you often feel drained for no clear reason, it could point to hidden health problems, including issues with the colon.

Stuck in the bathroom

Going to the bathroom often is not always serious, but a sudden increase in bowel movements — with changes in texture or urgency — can be a warning sign.

In some cases, colon cancer causes diarrhea, while in others it creates the feeling of needing to go but makes it hard to pass stool. These changes happen when a tumor affects normal bowel function. If your bathroom habits keep changing without a clear reason, you should see a doctor.

Feeling bloated

Constant bloating is not always a small problem — it can be a warning sign of something serious. Colon cancer may block the intestines, leading to gas, swelling, and pain.

Many people think bloating is just a common stomach issue, but if it is frequent, painful, or doesn’t get better with diet changes, it’s important to see a doctor. Sometimes it can mean a tumor is interfering with digestion, and finding it early can save lives.

Stomach pain

One symptom that women may ignore is pain on the lower right side of her body, just under her breast. It may seem that this is only due to a tight bra, but it could be a warning sign.

A colon tumor can block the intestines, making it hard for stool to pass and causing strong pain, often in the lower left abdomen. Ongoing pain or sudden changes in bowel habits should never be ignored — it’s important to see a doctor.

Additional signs of colon cancer

Other warning signs of colon cancer can include:

• Always feeling like your bowel didn’t fully empty.
• Stool that looks bright red or very dark.
• Losing weight without trying.
• Nausea or vomiting, especially if a blockage is present in later stages.

Here you can read about silent deficiency symptoms doctors say could be secretly harming your health.