Diana Kelly Levey

Early Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

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May 10, 2019 | Categories: ,

We often hear about breast cancer and lung cancer in the news and discussed in friend circles, but colorectal cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and women – and one people tend to feel less comfortable discussing.

This type of cancer is detected in the colon or rectum and is one you should know the signs of because it’s the second leading cause of cancer death in men and women combined. Each year, approximately 145,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer might be tough to notice if you aren’t paying attention, so here are some early signs to be aware of and talk to your doctor about if you are concerned. Take note, the most common symptom is no symptom so make sure you get screened with a colonoscopy if you’re 45 or older – it could save your life.

You’re exhausted.

Sure, there can be one million things causing your exhaustion, but be aware of fatigue or lack of energy that’s unusual for you. If you feel very tired or weak lately and can’t explain why, bring it up with your doctor.

You notice rectal bleeding.

See blood in your stool? You might think it’s a hemorrhoid or tearing, but this could also be a symptom of colorectal cancer. Make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible to have it checked out.

You’ve got abdominal pain.

If you often experience cramps, gas, or pain in your abdomen, these could be warning signs of colorectal cancer. You might also find that you feel “full,” or bloated, or have the sensation that your bowel does not empty completely.

You’re losing weight — without trying.

One of the signs of colorectal cancer (and many other kinds of cancer) is unexplained weight loss. If you find that the numbers on the scale are dropping down and you weren’t even trying to lose weight, it could mean something is wrong.

Colorectal cancer is treatable if detected early. So pay attention to any changes in your body and make an appointment with your doctor. If you haven’t done so already, and you’re 45+, make an appointment for your colonoscopy screening.

Read the full article on Doctor Oz.

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