Colon and Rectal Cancer: Signs and Symptoms
Colon and rectal cancer are two types of cancer that are relatively common. They are more likely to develop in individuals with a family history of these cancers, yet environmental factors can also trigger the onset of these cancers, affecting anyone.
What should you do if you are worried you may have either of these cancers? Here are key things to know about colon and rectal cancer from the experienced surgeons at Premier Surgical Associates in East, TN.
The American Cancer Society states that, in 2023, an estimated 106,970 new colon cancer cases will be diagnosed, and 46,050 new rectal cancer cases will be diagnosed.
Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer
The most common symptoms of colon cancer include the following:
- Persistent change in bowel habits. This could include a change in the way your stool looks, its size, and the frequency of diarrhea or constipation.
- The inability to empty your bowel fully
- Bleeding or blood found in the stool
- Weakness and fatigue
- Abdominal pain and discomfort that often feels like cramping or gas pain
- Unexplained weight loss
Signs and Symptoms of Rectal Cancer
The most common signs of rectal cancer include:
- Dark coloring or bright red blood in stool
- A change in bowel habits, such as more frequent bowel movements, constipation, or diarrhea, frequently
- Unexplained weight loss
- Narrow stool
- Abdominal pain
- Weakness and fatigue
The best way to determine if you are at risk for colon and rectal cancer is talking with your healthcare provider to assess your risk factors. More importantly, if you experience signs and symptoms of colon and rectal cancer, your healthcare provider may recommend a colonoscopy or other screenings to detect any signs of cancer.
It’s imperative for patients to understand the significance of regular screenings because they can help detect colon and rectal cancer at an early stage when it is more treatable.
What Should You Do If You’re At Risk?
Surgery is often part of the treatment for colon or rectal cancer. Premier Surgical surgeons Dr. Greg Midis, Dr. Sung Lee, and Dr. David Roife were part of the effort that helped Fort Sanders Regional in Knoxville recently become the first hospital in Tennessee to earn a National Rectal Cancer Accreditation.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’re facing a colon or rectal cancer diagnosis, put your trust in a care team that’s highly experienced and dedicated to helping patients achieve their best outcome. To request an appointment with one of our Premier Surgical surgeons in Knoxville, Cleveland, or Johnson City, Tennessee, visit schedule an appointment.