How to Detect Bowel Cancer Symptoms

Bowel cancer or colorectal cancer is the most common internal cancer that occurs in humans. Bowel cancer is also the second most frequent cause of death after lung cancer. Typically, bowel cancer occurs in the colon (large intestine) and the rectum (back passage). However, in some very small number of cases of this disease, it can also occur in the small intestine. Frequently, the colorectal cancer develops from polyps that grow inside the lining of the intestine wall. When the polyps become malignant, they turn into cancer. Untreated, bowel cancer can grow through the wall of the intestine and spread to other parts of the body.

While death mostly occurs in advanced stages of this disease, the chances for recovery for this cancer are very high if it is detected in its early stages. The success of the recovery can be more than 90% of all cases. Early symptoms of bowel cancer resemble minor intestinal problems such as constipation, gas, and so forth. It is very important for you to notice any changes in your bowel habits and digestion and seek medical help...

If you have any of the following symptoms for three weeks or longer, it could be a sign of colorectal cancer, and you should see your doctor immediately. These symptoms include:

- Rectal bleeding

Your back passage bleeds without any apparent reason. The blood can be found in your stool or on your toilet paper following a bowel movement. Along with that, you may also find other symptoms such as lumps, itchiness, straining and soreness around the rectum. Hemorrhoids can also cause these same symptoms. Make a habit to look into the bowl prior to flushing to watch for these symptoms.

- Changes in bowel movement habits

You may experience constant constipation or diarrhea due to the disturbance of muscles. Constipation is usually followed by a feeling of not feeling completely empty even when you already have passed the stool. Meanwhile, diarrhea causes more frequent bowel movements and often with lots of clear, jelly-like mucus.

- Pain in abdominal area

Abdominal pain can be constant or periodic. For some people, it lingers and does not go away. For some others, it comes and goes at unexpected times. When the pain becomes serious, you should contact your physician to get immediate help.

- Anemia

If you bleed often while passing a stool, there is a chance you suffer from anemia. This shows up as unexpected fatigue and breathlessness.

- A lump found in your abdomen or tummy, especially on the right side.

- Unexplained and unexpected weight loss; often along with an unexplained loss of appetite.