THE Cancer of the colon, that is, the development of malignancy in the large intestine or rectum, constitutes one of more common in appearance Cancer forms worldwide. The causes of the disease are not always clear, but unhealthy dietary and other harmful habits significantly increase the likelihood of disease.
“Most cases of colon or rectal cancer begin in the form of polyps. Polyps are abnormal, benign developments in the instrument of the instrument, which usually remain asymptomatic until they are usually found. Therefore, control over finding and removing them greatly helps prevent their development into cancer. Colon cancer, when it is located At an early stage, it is usually characterized by absence of symptoms. Some alarming symptoms predisposed to colon cancer, however, may occur relatively early, “says Dimitrios Mousiolis, General Surgeon, Director of the Metropolitan General Surgery Clinic, answering the question of what they are …
Changes to bowel habits
The sudden change in bowel habits is one of the main alarming symptoms that predispose to colon cancer. Bowel problems such as diarrhea, constipation and the narrowest than usually faeces do not always indicate cancer. However, severe or prolonged problems may indicate colon or rectal cancer. Prolonged constipation, diarrhea and the feeling that the intestine does not fully empty could indicate colon cancer, especially if this change suddenly emerges and without obvious etiology.
Stool blood
The presence of blood in the faeces is a possible sign of colon cancer and can cause concern. The presence of blood in the faeces should never be considered normal. While hemorrhoids are a possible cause of bloody stools, stool blood should be investigated immediately in order to exclude the existence of diseases hazardous to diseases, such as colon cancer. If blood is found in the stools, either light or dark, the patient should immediately contact a diagnostic test.
Abdominal symptoms
In general, stomach disorders or the consumption of certain foods can cause common digestive problems, such as occasional abdominal pain, bowel cramps, drumming and severe gas production. In the majority of cases, these symptoms occur after eating a large or fat meal, and do not cause concern. However, if they occur frequently and for no apparent cause, this could indicate the presence of colon cancer.
Inexplicable weight loss
Loss of body weight without apparent etiology is a symptom that needs investigation. In general, sudden and inexplicable weight loss is a non -specific signal and symptom of cancer. For people with cancer, sudden weight loss can result from the body’s excessive attempt to combat cancer cells. Large -sized cancerous tumors can lead to colon blockage, and often cause changes in the intestine and gradual or sudden weight loss.
“Although these symptoms may be caused by other, less serious diseases, such as hemorrhoids, ulcers and Crohn’s disease, they should be investigated by a specialist. Blood in the faeces, even if it occurs only at times, should never be ignored. If any of the above alarming symptoms of colon cancer are systematically presented for more than four weeks, the patient should undergo a thorough diagnostic screening, ”concludes Mr Mousiolis.