The colon, also known as the large intestine, is the last part of the digestive tract. When cancer develops in the organ, it is called colon cancer. The condition can occur at any age and, fortunately, can be treated with drugs, surgery, chemotherapy, and other methods. Here, we discuss the early symptoms of colon cancer. One should visit a doctor immediately on noticing these signs and get the screening tests done.

1. Rectal bleeding
If a person experiences frequent rectal bleeding, it could be an early symptom of colon cancer. The blood is usually bright red, pink, or dark brown and is noticed after bowel movements.

2. Frequent cramping
Another vital sign to look out for is cramping or pains in the abdomen. These pains can arise at any point and tend to remain for long. Besides stomach aches, one can also experience bloating or an uneasy feeling of fullness. In such a scenario, it is advisable to consult a doctor and determine the cause.

3. Unexpected weight loss
Losing extra weight can be a good thing, but if one loses weight unexpectedly and in an unexplained manner, it should not be ignored since it can be one of the early symptoms of colon cancer. The weight loss occurs as the body consumes more energy than usual to fight the cancer cells and ward off the disease.

4. Change in bowel movements
If a person experiences incomplete bowel movements for several days in a row, it should not be taken lightly. Problems like diarrhea, altered consistency of stool, and constipation may seem benign but need to be inspected.

5. Feeling to defecate more often
The urge to defecate again and again despite passing stools almost every time can be one of the early symptoms of colon cancer. The condition is also called irritable bowel syndrome and can cause significant discomfort.

6. Anemia
Blood disorders like anemia, characterized by a decrease in the body’s red blood cells (RBCs), can also occur alongside colon cancer. Most RBCs are lost as a result of rectal bleeding.

7. Fatigue
Feeling weak and tired most of the time, even without doing much physical activity throughout the day, is not to be ignored at all. It is a sign that the body needs medical attention. It is usually because the body is trying to fight cancer.

8. Nausea
Unexpected vomiting and feeling nauseous from time to time is another sign to look out for. It happens because the tumor blocks the large intestine, preventing any gas or other waste from being released the usual way.

Observing and acting on these early symptoms of colon cancer is crucial for getting the proper treatment at the right time. To stay safe, one must eat healthily, maintain optimum body weight, and give up unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking.