The human digestive system is complex and makes it difficult to catch the early signs of colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer. There are many early signs of colon cancer in men and women that may indicate it, but they can often be confused for symptoms of another condition, and it does not necessarily mean that you have the disease. This article discusses the early signs of colon cancer in men and women.

• Change in bowel habits
  Change in bowel habits is one of the early signs of colon cancer in men and women. Constipation, diarrhea, or loose motions can be caused due to stomach infections, but if it lasts more than a week, you should consult a doctor. An occasional bowel problem is normal, but if it is frequent, then it is alarming.
• Cramps and bloating
  Cramps and bloating are additional early signs of colon cancer in men and women. Experiencing occasional cramps or bloating is normal but frequent occurrences of unexplained cramps and bloating can be a sign of colon cancer. Women often mistake these for menstrual cramps and tend to ignore it till the situation worsens.
• Feeling like bowels are not clear
  Early signs of colon cancer in men and women also include the feeling as though the bowels are not empty. In some cases, a growth blocks the colon, giving you the sensation of wanting to go to the toilet, even though you may have just visited it.
• Blood in stool
  Fresh red blood in stools or stools with darker or tarry appearance can be frightening and an early sign of colon cancer. Bloody stools can also be due to hemorrhoids, ulcers, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease. It’s therefore wise to see a doctor and get it diagnosed, regardless of the cause. One should get regular colon cancer screenings after the age of 50.
• Unexplained weight loss
  Unexplained weight loss can be an early sign of many ailments and should never be ignored. When a person is suffering from cancer, the diseased cells consume a majority of the body’s energy, and the immune system works hard to fight cancer cells. If the tumor is big in size, it may block the colon and cause bowel changes, leading to further weight loss.
• Fatigue
  Fatigue is among the early signs of colon cancer in men and women. Colon cancer patients may feel weak and experience fatigue due to drainage of energy and stress of bowel symptoms. Chronic fatigue can be concerning and should be treated immediately.
• Shortness of breath
  When fatigue sets in a cancer patient’s body, shortness of breath is common. A person may feel exhausted and have shortness of breath on walking a short distance or on laughing. They may even feel so without having done any activity.

This list of early signs of colon cancer in men and women can help you understand the condition better. If you experience any of the signs, get in touch with your doctor and for a timely diagnosis.