How well do you know the risk factors and signs of colon cancer? This is a topic relevant to us because colon cancer is one of the more common reasons patients undergo ostomy procedures. Perhaps you know somebody who has already experienced this difficult condition.

On the one hand, there are certain risk factors that leave you vulnerable to developing colon cancer. These include age, heavy alcohol consumption, smoking, family history, and poor diet. Then again, it’s not always easy to prevent its arrival.

How do you know you may have colon cancer? Keep an eye out for these 10 common signs.

10 Signs of Colon Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

Bloody Stool

This may have several potential causes, but it’s wise to have your doctor submit samples for blood analysis, especially if you notice it frequently.

Rectal Bleeding

Bleeding may occur in either the stool or around the rectal cavity. Sometimes this will become obvious from the appearance of red toilet water or toilet paper.

Trouble Passing Stool

This happens when you feel like you’re passing a stool, but nothing happens. Sometimes there may be an urgent need to go, but nothing passes even after several minutes.

Stool Color Changes

Darker color stool can be another side effect of bloody stool. When this happens, it may appear very dark, black, and sometimes sticky.

Anemia

Anemia is an often concurrent condition involving low red blood cell count. Colon cancer can trigger this problem via rectal bleeding. This can also contribute to shortness of breath, feeling weak or fatigued, and even pale skin.

Abdominal Pain/Discomfort

Complications from colon cancer can take on several forms such as gassiness, bloating, and cramping.

Weight Loss & Loss of Appetite

It can also contribute to weight loss and loss of appetite, even as you attempt to eat a balanced diet.

Diarrhea

Colon cancer can also lead to persistent diarrhea.

Constipation

Like some of the other symptoms, this can come from many sources. When it lasts more than a day or two, consult your physician to rule out something more serious.

Nausea

If you experience vomiting for no discernible reason, it too could result from an underlying condition such as colon cancer.

We hope this helps raise your awareness of a very serious medical problem, which you should never ignore or take lightly.

Fortis Medical Products manufactures high-quality ostomy supplies for clients who’ve undergone the procedure to address digestive problems up to and including colon cancer. We carry several one and two-piece pouch systems along with all the important accessories like wafers, skin ring barriers, stoma paste, and more. If you’d like to learn more about our services, feel free to contact us anytime by calling 855-550-2600.