Also, you might have questions about what rapid weight loss means exactly. Is it 5 pounds, 15, 20? Research has shown that a dramatic weight loss of 10 pounds or more could be a warning sign indicating that you need a colonoscopy. To illustrate, researchers believe that weight loss occurs because either the cancer cells are taking up a lot of energy or the cancer changes the way the body converts food to energy.
3. Changes in bowel movements.
Additionally, any change in your bowel movements could indicate that you need a colonoscopy. Diarrhea, constipation, narrowed stool, and other changes in bowel habits are often signs that could be investigated with a colonoscopy. For example, if a growth becomes very large, it could block the bowel. As the bowel is blocked, you might experience abdominal pain that comes in waves.
If you do not pay attention to whether there are changes in your bowel movements, you might consider being more aware. This simple step could make it easier for you to identify the most important signs that you need a colonoscopy. For instance, if you do have a growth that is blocking the bowel, catching it early could mean the difference between needing or not needing surgery.
2. Recurrent unattributed pain in the stomach.
Another common symptom that might require a colonoscopy is unattributed pain in the stomach or abdomen. Also, if the pain you experience is due to cancer that is partially blocking the colon, then it could be accompanied by bloating, cramping, and nausea. On the other hand, if the pain you are experiencing is from cancer itself, then the pain may be localized to a specific region of the abdomen. In addition, the abdominal pain may come in waves.
If you have frequent abdominal pain, it may not be that you need a colonoscopy. Although, if you have experienced rapid weight loss, changes in bowel movements, and blood in the stool, then you might strongly consider getting a colonoscopy. Because abdominal pain is a common complaint among most people, without the other symptoms it can be hard to determine whether you need a colonoscopy.