Colon cancer involves the large intestine. It is prevalent globally and is risky if it is not detected early. Abdominal pain is one potential symptom of colon cancer. But how do we know that this pain is caused by colon cancer?
This investigates whether abdominal pain may be due to colon cancer. We will also consider other symptoms and why it should be detected early.
What is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer begins when abnormal cells in the colon begin to grow in an uncontrollable manner. These cells can, over time, develop into polyps or tumors. If left untreated, they can become malignant. The precise cause of colon cancer is unknown, but various factors contribute to the risk. These include genetics, age, lifestyle, and diet.
Colon cancer symptoms tend not to surface until the condition is more established. That’s why early diagnosis is essential for treatment.
Is Abdominal Pain a Sign of Colon Cancer?
Yes, abdominal pain may be a symptom of colon cancer. But abdominal pain is not necessarily caused by cancer. Most common conditions such as gas, constipation, or indigestion can lead to abdominal discomfort. But if the pain is recurring and there is no explanation for it, it must be taken seriously.
In cancer of the colon, belly pain may occur when a tumor clogs part of the intestine. The pain may be crampy, bloated, or uncomfortable. As the illness gets worse, the pain becomes more severe and frequent.
Types of Abdominal Pain in Colon Cancer
Abdominal pain associated with colon cancer may be of different types. It is dependent on the tumor location and disease stage. The following are some common types of pain:
Cramping and Bloating: They are initial signs. They are usually confused with gas or indigestion. If they persist for a long duration, it may be due to colon cancer.
Sharp Pain: An enlarging tumor can obstruct the bowel, leading to sharp, severe pain. This can be a sign of an obstruction of the bowel. It is an emergency situation that requires medical attention.
Widespread Discomfort: The discomfort may not remain in one area. Rather, it could move throughout the abdomen, which suggests the condition is spreading.
Other Symptoms of Colon Cancer
It usually occurs along with other symptoms. Knowing the entire list of colon cancer symptoms aids in early detection:
Changes in Bowel Habits: Constipation, diarrhea, or alternate constipation and diarrhea. When these last for several weeks, it may be due to colon cancer.
Blood in the Stool: Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding is a warning sign. Blood may be bright red or dark, depending on the location of the bleeding.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Weight loss without trying is another symptom. Colon cancer can cause the body to do extra work, resulting in weight loss.
Fatigue: Cancer can drain your energy, causing fatigue. In colon cancer, this could also be due to bleeding, which can lead to anemia.
Incomplete Bowel Movements: Some people with colon cancer feel like they still need to go to the bathroom even after a bowel movement. This discomfort is another key sign.
Narrow Stools: If stools feel narrower than normal, and this persists for a few days, it may be a sign of a colon tumor.
When to See a Doctor?
Some pain in the belly is probably not a cause for concern. But pain that happens over and over should be examined.
Changes in bowel habits without a reason
Blood in the stool
Unexpected weight loss
Persistent tiredness
The sooner colon cancer is detected, the better are the chances for effective treatment. Routine screening tests can detect it early.
Risk Factors for Colon Cancer
These are:
Age: Individuals above the age of 50 have a greater risk of colon cancer.
Family History: When there is colon cancer in your family, your risk increases.
Diet: Red meat-rich and low-fruit and low-vegetable diets are associated with colon cancer.
Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of colon cancer.
Obesity: Being overweight or inactive also raises your risk of colon cancer.
How is Colon Cancer Diagnosed?
If you have symptoms of colon cancer, your physician may recommend a number of tests:
Colonoscopy: This procedure lets the physician view your colon to check for polyps or tumors.
CT Scan: A scan can determine whether cancer has spread outside the colon.
Biopsy: A tissue sample may be obtained to find out if a tumor is cancerous.
Stool Tests: Certain stool tests are able to identify blood, which can be an indication of colon cancer.
Treatment for Colon Cancer
If it is found that one has colon cancer, the treatment process is based on the stage of the disease. Treatment options include:
Surgery: Surgery is commonly the initial treatment of colon cancer. It involves removal of the tumor and surrounding affected tissues.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves using medications to destroy cancer cells or prevent them from multiplying. It is typically administered when cancer has spread.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation employs high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and reduce tumors.
Targeted Therapy: These drugs attack specific molecules that enable cancer cells to proliferate.
Can Colon Cancer Be Prevented?
Although colon cancer can’t always be avoided, you can do some things to reduce your risk:
Regular Screenings: Colon cancer screenings may detect the disease in its early stages or even prevent it by removing polyps.
Healthy Diet: Increasing fruit, vegetable, and whole grain consumption can lower your risk.
Stay Active: Exercise regularly to help keep you at a healthy weight and decrease your risk.
Don’t Smoke and Drink: Stopping smoking and cutting down on drinking decreases the chances of colon cancer and other diseases.
Pain in the stomach is one symptom of colon cancer, but it is not a solitary indicator. If you get persistent pain combined with other signs, such as blood in your stool or losing weight, then you should go to the doctor. Colon cancer can be diagnosed early and cured if detected on time.
