Uncommon Symptoms of Colon Cancer

What Is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer starts in the large intestine, which carries digested food into the rectum and, from there, out of the body via the anus. If left undetected, colon cancer can spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs. Most cases of colon cancer begin as benign (noncancerous) polyps that slowly become malignant over time. Colon cancer and rectal cancer usually are grouped as colorectal cancer.

Risk factors for colon cancer include:

• Age: Most colon cancer cases are diagnosed in patients over the age of 50.
• Racial or ethnic background: Colon cancer rates are highest among Black people and Jewish people of Eastern European descent.
• Personal and family history: Colon cancer and colon polyps run in families. People who have had colon polyps in the past have a higher risk of colon cancer.
• Genetics: Some cases of colorectal cancer are linked to inherited genetic syndromes such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis.

Several lifestyle factors also contribute to the risk of colon cancer. These include smoking, heavy alcohol use, a sedentary lifestyle, and a high-fat, low-fiber diet.

Common Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Some of the more prevalent colon cancer symptoms include:

• Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
• Changes in bowel habits, including chronic diarrhea or loose stools, pencil-thin stools, and severe constipation
• Persistent abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating
• Unintentional weight loss, changes in appetite, or satiety – feeling full after having eaten very little
• Fatigue and weakness

However, some cases of colon cancer do not cause any symptoms, particularly in their early stages.

What Are Some Uncommon Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

Other signs of colon cancer are less common but may help aid in early detection and diagnosis. Lesser-known symptoms include:

• Tenesmus: This is the sensation of urgently needing to pass a bowel movement. It can occur even if a person has just used the bathroom or if his or her colon is empty.
• Prolapse or protrusion: Rectal prolapse occurs when the last section of the large intestine slips out of place and protrudes through the anus.
• General rectal pain or discomfort: These sensations also can be symptoms of colon cancer.
• Anemia: Low hemoglobin levels in the blood can result from gastrointestinal bleeding caused by colon cancer.
• Unexplained fever and night sweats

Responding to Symptoms that May Indicate Colon Cancer

It’s normal for a patient to feel embarrassed when they are experiencing bowel issues, so they may not want to tell a doctor about problems such as chronic diarrhea or constipation. However, it is important to report any persistent, unexplained health changes to a primary care physician. Paying attention to changes in the body, as well as getting regular checkups, can help identify health issues early on.

Diagnostic Tests and Evaluation

The most common screening test for colon cancer is a colonoscopy. In this procedure, a narrow, flexible tube called a colonoscope with a camera attached is inserted through the anus to examine the colon and check for polyps, tumors, or other signs of abnormalities. Other screening tests include:

• Stool tests: These tests check a stool sample for blood and signs of genetic mutations.
• Virtual colonoscopy: This test uses a computed tomography (CT) scan to evaluate the colon and rectum for polyps.
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy: This test is similar to a colonoscopy but only checks the lower third of the large intestine.

If any of these tests reveal evidence of polyps or tumors, a patient may have additional tests to confirm a diagnosis of colon cancer, including blood work, imaging, or a biopsy.

Treatment and Prognosis

Early-stage colon cancer typically is treated with surgery. Depending on where the cancer is located and how far it has spread, surgical options include:

• A polypectomy, which removes cancerous polyps
• Colon resection surgery, which removes the portion of the colon where the cancer is located

Some patients have chemotherapy or targeted therapy, as well. These treatments can shrink tumors before surgery or kill off any cancer cells that remain after surgery.

The five-year survival rate for colon cancer is 63%, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology. However, if colon cancer is detected before it spreads, the five-year survival rate is as high as 91%.

Prevention and Early Detection

Some colon cancer risk factors, like family history, are beyond a patient’s control. Other risk factors, however, can be reduced through lifestyle modifications. These include:

• Quitting smoking
• Limiting or eliminating alcohol intake
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying physically active
• Eating a balanced, nutrient-dense diet

One of the best things a patient can do to lower his or her risk of colon cancer is to obtain routine screenings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations call for adults between the ages of 45 and 75 years to get screened regularly for colorectal cancer.

Seek Colon Cancer Care at Regional Cancer Care Associates

Recognizing uncommon colon cancer symptoms can make a major difference in catching this condition before it spreads. Patients experiencing unusual gastrointestinal symptoms are encouraged to talk with their doctor and pursue diagnostic testing if needed. Fortunately, colon cancer is highly treatable.

Patients in New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, and the Washington, D.C., area, can receive excellent care for cancer and blood disorders at Regional Cancer Care Associates. The board-certified oncologists of Regional Cancer Care Associates treat every type of cancer and use cutting-edge treatments from immunotherapy to precision medicine at more than 20 locations. For more information, contact us today.