Important Signs Of Bowel Cancer You Should Not Ignore!

Detecting bowel cancer in its early stages significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery. That's why it's crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms associated with bowel cancer and not overlook any potential indicators.

Bowel cancer (colorectal cancer) is a severe and potentially life-threatening health condition that affects individuals worldwide. It occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the colon or rectum, forming a tumor.

Bowel cancer develops when normal cells in the lining of the colon or rectum undergo abnormal growth and multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The exact causes of bowel cancer are not fully understood, but certain risk factors increase an individual's susceptibility to the disease. These risk factors include:

• Age (most cases occur in people over the age of 50)
• Family history of bowel cancer or certain hereditary conditions
• History of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease)
• Diet high in red and processed meats
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Sedentary lifestyle

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Signs Of Bowel Cancer

Signs of bowel cancer that you should not overlook:

1) Persistent Changes in Bowel Habits

One of the earliest signs of bowel cancer is a persistent change in bowel habits. It can include a sudden increase or decrease in the frequency of bowel movements, changes in stool consistency (e.g., more watery or narrower stools), or a feeling of incomplete emptying after bowel movements. If you notice any unexplained and lasting alterations in your bowel habits, it's essential to consult your doctor.

2) Rectal Bleeding

Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool can indicate various conditions, including bowel cancer. Although not all cases of rectal bleeding are related to cancer, it is a symptom that should never be ignored. If you experience blood in your stool or notice rectal bleeding, especially if it persists with other symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.

3) Abdominal Pain and Cramping

Persistent abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort that doesn't go away may be a sign of bowel cancer. While there can be many causes for abdominal pain, it's essential to pay attention to any chronic or unexplained pain in the abdomen, if it occurs alongside other symptoms related to bowel function.

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4) Unexplained Weight Loss

Unintentional weight loss without any apparent reason should be taken seriously. Bowel cancer can cause unexplained weight loss, as it affects the digestive system's normal functioning. If you experience significant weight loss without making any changes to your diet or exercise routine, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional.

5) Persistent Fatigue

Chronic fatigue or tiredness that doesn't improve with rest may be a sign of bowel cancer. A tumor can cause the body to work harder, leading to persistent fatigue. If you may feel exhausted even after getting enough sleep or experiencing a decline in energy levels that lasts for an extended period, it's worth discussing with your doctor.

6) Changes in Bowel Movement Sensation

Bowel cancer may cause a persistent feeling that your bowel doesn't empty after a bowel movement. This sensation is known as tenesmus and can be an indicator of an underlying issue. If you consistently experience this feeling, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Causes of Bowel Cancer

While the exact causes of bowel cancer are not fully understood, research has identified several risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

• Age: The risk of developing bowel cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in people aged 50 or older.
• Family history: Having a family history of bowel cancer or certain genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) can increase the risk of developing the disease.
• Personal history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): People who have had polyps or IBD, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, are at increased risk of developing bowel cancer.
• Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle factors such as a diet high in red and processed meats, a lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption have been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, may be at higher risk of developing bowel cancer.
• Obesity: Obesity has been associated with an increased risk of developing bowel cancer, although the exact link between the two is not fully understood.
• Smoking: Smoking tobacco is a known risk factor for bowel cancer. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can affect the cells lining the colon and rectum, increasing the risk of developing cancerous growths.

Also check: Foods that can increase your chance of getting cancer

Treatment for Bowel Cancer

1. Surgery: Surgery is usually the primary treatment for bowel cancer. It involves removing the tumor along with the nearby lymph nodes. Depending on the cancer's stage, the surgery's extent will vary. In the early stages, a localized tumor may be removed through a minimally invasive procedure (laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery). In advanced stages, a partial or total colectomy (removal of a portion or the entire colon) may be necessary.
2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves anti-cancer drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It is commonly used with surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Chemotherapy can be given before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumor, or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. In advanced cases, chemotherapy may be used as the primary treatment to slow down the progression of cancer and relieve symptoms.
3. Radiation therapy: It destroys cancer cells using high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation. It is used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy. In bowel cancer, radiation therapy may be administered externally (external beam radiation) or internally (brachytherapy), depending on the situation.
4. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy drugs selectively target cancer cells by focusing on specific molecules or pathways involved in their growth and spread. They are designed to minimize side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy and are particularly effective when cancer has specific genetic mutations or biomarkers.

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Conclusion

Being aware of the signs of bowel cancer is crucial for early detection and timely treatment. If you experience persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, weakness, or any other concerning symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. Remember, while these signs can be associated with bowel cancer, they can also be caused by other conditions. A medical evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate care.