Colon cancer is a dangerous form of cancer that can affect people of any age, but older adults are at a much higher risk of developing the disease. It is important to know the symptoms, so you can get a screening and begin treatment as soon as possible.
Feeling strong fatigue is one symptom of colon cancer to look out for. Drops in your energy levels can be a sign of several issues; so, it’s important to talk to your doctor if you are experiencing this symptom, though it may not actually be colon cancer that is causing it.
Another symptom is blood in the stool or rectal bleeding. Visible blood or stool that is a dark color, which may be indicative of internal bleeding, can be a sign of colon cancer. Again, this could be a symptom of other issues like hemorrhoids, but if you’re experiencing this symptom, it is important to talk to your doctor about the issue to figure out exactly what is causing it.
If you are experiencing persistent abdominal pain, this may be a sign that you should get screened for colon cancer. The pain can come in the forms of cramps or severe bloating, and may also cause pelvic pain to develop.
Another major symptom of colon cancer is unintentional weight loss. If you unintentionally lose a significant amount of weight — 8 lbs or more — in under 6 months, you should see a doctor and describe the issue to them. There are many causes that could be attributed to this symptom, and colon cancer is a dangerous possibility.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to consult your doctor about them no matter your age. But if you are an older adult, it is even more important, as colon cancer its highest incidence rates among older adults.
