Sometimes, colorectal cancer can develop without any symptoms. Many of us are afraid when we hear the word 'cancer', and that's true. However, being aware of these diseases and recognizing the symptoms early is the best way to protect ourselves. So today, let's talk about what symptoms may appear in this disease and what we should be concerned about.
Can cancer occur without symptoms?
Yes, unfortunately, sometimes this cancer can develop inside the body without any symptoms. When symptoms start to appear, the cancer may have already developed to some extent. This is why doctors always emphasize that, especially after the age of 45-50, you should continue to undergo medical examinations (screenings) even if you do not have any symptoms. These examinations can detect a problem at a very early stage, before symptoms appear.
However, not all cancers are asymptomatic. For many, the body sends warning signs. Let's take a closer look at them.
What are the main symptoms we should look out for?
When cancer cells grow inside the colon, they can damage surrounding tissue and cause a variety of symptoms. If you have had one or more of these for a long time, you should definitely be concerned.
| Symptom | What you should be careful about |
|---|---|
| Change in toilet habits | Constipation that lasts for days, or diarrhea that continues, or alternating between the two, may occur differently than before. This may include a feeling that the stomach has not completely emptied even after going to the toilet. |
| Blood in or on the stool | This is the symptom that scares many people. If your stool is dark black (like tar) or bright red with blood, don't ignore it. You may not even notice that there is blood in your stool. |
| Anemia without a cause | The cancer can gradually bleed into your body, causing your blood volume to decrease. This can make you feel tired, sleepy, and lifeless no matter how much you rest. |
| Unusual stomach pain or gas | If you are constantly experiencing strange stomach pain, bloating, or stomach cramps due to gas, be aware of that as well. |
| Weight loss for no reason | If you suddenly lose weight, even though you're not dieting or exercising, and have been eating and drinking normally, that's also something to pay attention to. |
| Vomiting and extreme fatigue | Along with the above symptoms, some people may also experience vomiting. Another symptom is a persistent feeling of weakness, different from normal fatigue. |
Is blood in the stool always cancer?
No. This is what many people are afraid of. Blood in the stool can be caused by a number of other diseases, such as hemorrhoids, ulcers, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease. So, don't panic when you see blood.
However, that doesn't mean you should ignore it. Whatever the cause, if you're experiencing blood in your stool, it's important to talk to your doctor about it, get the necessary tests done, and find the exact cause.
Also, remember that sometimes the food we eat (for example, beetroot) or iron tablets can also cause red or black stools. But if you have any doubts about it, it's best to see a doctor to clear up any doubts.
What is the relationship between anemia and cancer?
Simply put, anemia is a decrease in the amount of blood in the body. Specifically, it is a decrease in the number of red blood cells that carry oxygen. When there is a tumor in the colon, it can bleed very little and not be visible to the eye for a long time. This causes a decrease in the amount of blood in the body over time, causing anemia.
If you have this, you may not just feel tired. No matter how much sleep you get, you may feel weak, dizzy, or have difficulty climbing stairs. If you have unexplained anemia, your doctor will order further tests to find the cause.
What should I do if I have these symptoms?
If you have been experiencing one or more of the symptoms listed above for several weeks, please don't ignore it. Don't think, "It's probably just gas," or "It's probably hemorrhoids."
The best and safest thing to do is to see your family doctor (doctor) immediately.
Your doctor will listen carefully to your symptoms, examine you, and, if necessary, refer you for stool tests, blood tests, or a colonoscopy.
Remember, for colon cancer, how quickly the disease is detected directly affects the chances of saving lives and the success of treatment. So don't be afraid, embarrassed, or put off getting tested.
Take-Home Message
- Colon cancer can sometimes occur without any symptoms, so it is very important to get regular medical checkups, especially for older people.
- Don't ignore symptoms such as a long-term change in toilet habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, persistent stomach pain, or extreme fatigue.
- Even if there are other causes of blood in the stool, such as hemorrhoids, it is important to see a doctor to confirm the cause.
- If you have one or more of the above symptoms, do not panic and do not delay, but consult your doctor for advice. Early diagnosis is the best chance for successful treatment.
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