Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine. Most cases of cancer start out as small, noncancerous cells called adenomatous polyps. Over time, some of these polyps turn cancerous. Regular screening for these polyps may help save you from colorectal cancer.

10 Signs of Colon Cancer

Often, early-stage colon cancer has no signs or symptoms. Colon cancer symptoms also can signal other illnesses. Because of this, screening tests are extremely important for the detection of colorectal cancer. Familiarity with the types and occurrence of symptoms of can be invaluable for an accurate diagnosis of colon cancer.

1.    Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool may result in a very dark bowel movement, traces of blood, or quite possibly, normal stool.

2.    There may be changes in your bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation or going more often.

3.    There are times when you may feel the urge to move your bowels even though you already may have done so.

4.    You may experience cramping in the belly and abdomen, and in later stages of the disease, pelvic pain.

5.    There may be unexplained fatigue or weakness.

6.    You may find yourself with unexplained and unexpected weight loss.

7.    Chronic diarrhea, gas or constipation may be signs of colorectal cancer.

8.    You may have persistent abdominal bloating.

9.    There may be a loss of appetite for no apparent reason.

10.  You may have a serious bout of anemia.

Other diseases such as GI tract infections, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease share the same symptoms as colon cancer. Knowing what the risk factors are for CRC may help you decide to get cancer screening.