Colon cancer is one of several cancers screening can detect early and treat successfully. It occurs when cells in the inner lining of the colon or rectum mutate and grow out of control, forming a tumor. A tumor is benign if it does not spread to other parts of the body; malignant tumors are those that invade other parts of the body. Colon cancer is typically diagnosed during a colonoscopy, an outpatient procedure using a long, flexible tube with a camera and light on the end to look at the inside of your rectum and entire colon.
The human intestine or gut typically hosts many bacteria, which aids in breaking down food into its constituents. However, a high load of these bacteria can lead to an outbreak. Colon cancer is caused by a bacterial infection in the gut triggering mutations that cause cells to grow out of control. This article looks at some of the most common signs that you need to see a Lima colon cancer screening specialist.
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A Change in Bowel Habits
Discomfort, bloating, or cramps are the most common symptoms you may experience. Straining during bowel movements is also a sign something isn’t quite right. If you suddenly find that you need to go more often, or you’re going less frequently than usual, we recommend getting checked out. Changes in bowel habits will present themselves before any other noticeable symptoms.
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A Change in Your Stool
Before starting Lima colon cancer screening tests like a flexible sigmoidoscopy or barium enema, your doctor should perform a digital rectal exam. The doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated finger into your anus to check for abnormalities in the texture and size of your stool. Any significant change in the color or consistency of your stool can indicate that something is wrong.
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Abdominal Discomfort
No matter what you think is causing your abdominal discomfort, if bleeding or changes in bowel movements accompany it, then you should see a doctor. It can sometimes be easy to miss because, like other symptoms of colon cancer, the pain associated with it may not be caused by an issue with your bowels.
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Loss of Weight or Appetite Loss
Often, people with cancer will lose weight or find themselves completely unable to eat. If you notice a sudden inability to keep food down, this could signify colon cancer. It can also cause extreme weight loss, so if you have experienced either of these things, you must get a medical screening by a colon cancer screening specialist as soon as possible.
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Anemia
Loss of blood during bowel movements is often a sign that something isn’t quite right inside your body. Anemia is caused by an iron deficiency, which may be brought on by chronic or acute bleeding in the digestive system. Many people don’t associate blood loss with being a symptom of cancer, but it is undoubtedly one of them.
In summary, colon cancer is one cancer you can easily detect and treat with early screening. You may need colon cancer screening if you notice changes in your bowel habits, stool, or abdominal discomfort. Loss of weight and appetite loss or anemia are also signs that you need colon cancer screening.
