Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, and early detection plays a pivotal role in successful treatment. However, not many people are too fond of sharing their bathroom habits with one another — understandably so. But that can make it tricky to know what’s normal and what’s not. To make matters worse, colorectal cancer can be sneaky and not cause any symptoms or very vague symptoms in its early stages.

While many people are familiar with the more prominent symptoms like persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, and abdominal discomfort, there are some lesser-known signs that shouldn't be overlooked. In this post, we'll delve into these subtle indications that could signal the presence of colorectal cancer.

Unexplained Weight Loss

If you notice the number on the scale going down or you’re having to move down a notch on your belt without any effort on your part, you may welcome this newfound weight loss with open arms. However, unexplained and unintentional weight loss, such as losing 10 pounds or more, in six months without a known reason can be a red flag for colorectal cancer.

If you're shedding pounds without any significant changes in your diet or exercise routine, it's essential to consult with your health care provider to get checked out.

Fatigue and Weakness

Persistent fatigue and weakness, especially if they are not relieved by rest, could be an early sign of colorectal cancer. Fatigue associated with colorectal cancer is not the same as normal tiredness you may experience from time to time. It is a daily lack of energy, which can be described as "paralyzing."

This occurs because cancer cells can divert energy resources from the body, leading to constant feelings of tiredness. Don't dismiss ongoing fatigue; discuss it with your doctor to rule out potential health issues.

Iron Deficiency Anemia

Another contributing factor to feeling fatigued and weak is iron deficiency anemia which is caused by slow, chronic bleeding within the lining of the colon. This occurs when your body doesn't have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen. In addition to feeling tired and weak, you may also look pale.

If you experience these symptoms, a blood test can help determine if you have low iron levels, and additional symptoms can help inform your doctor about additional screening or tests if they suspect colorectal cancer.

Changes in Stool Color

While rectal bleeding is a well-known symptom, changes in stool color can also provide valuable insights. Dark or black stools may indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract, possibly from colorectal cancer. Keep an eye on your stool color and consult your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual changes.

Narrow Stools

While you may not be too keen on peering into the toilet, the shape and size of your stool can offer important clues about your digestive health.

In the past, doctors used to link narrow bowel movements to colorectal or colon cancer because they thought that cancer in the colon caused it to become narrower, resulting in narrow stools. However, it's now understood that gradual narrowing of the stool could be one symptom of colon cancer, but it's usually the result of other, much less serious conditions.

So, while narrow stools may not be a cause for alarm immediately, especially if it’s temporary, if narrow stools are accompanied by other symptoms, such as the ones listed in this post, it's important to consult a doctor and consider tests like a colonoscopy to rule out colorectal cancer.

Pelvic Pain

Colorectal cancer can sometimes cause pelvic pain, which may be overlooked or attributed to other issues. As colorectal cancer progresses, the tumor can grow in size and invade surrounding tissues and organs within the pelvic cavity. This growth can put pressure on nearby structures, leading to pelvic pain or discomfort. Pelvic pain may also be accompanied by other symptoms of colorectal cancer, such as changes in bowel habits (e.g., diarrhea or constipation), rectal bleeding, unintended weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort. The presence of these symptoms alongside pelvic pain may raise suspicion for colorectal cancer.

However, it’s important to note that pelvic pain on its own is not an immediate warning sign of cancer. If you experience persistent discomfort in your pelvic region, along with other symptoms, it's essential to discuss it with your doctor for a thorough evaluation.

A Disclaimer for Potential Warning Signs in Younger Adults

While colorectal cancer is often thought of as a disease common in older adults, its incidence is increasing in younger age groups. Diagnoses of colorectal cancer among adults younger than 50 continue to increase. In the United States, nearly 18,000 people under the age of 50 are expected to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year.

Factors such as sedentary lifestyle, overweight and obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and low-fiber, high-fat diets have been associated with the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in younger adults. Additionally, younger adults are not routinely screened for colorectal cancer because the disease is still relatively rare in this age group.

However, the increasing incidence of colorectal cancer in younger adults has led to a reevaluation of screening guidelines, with some medical organizations lowering the recommended age to start colorectal cancer screening from 50 to 45.

Don’t wait to call your doctor if you see any of these symptoms

Symptoms of colorectal cancer like diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and feeling tired are quite common and can be caused by many different health issues.

But if you notice any of the following "alarm symptoms," it's important to act quickly and talk to your doctor right away:

• Rectal bleeding
• Stools that are black and either runny and sticky or like tar
• Feeling extremely tired in a way that makes it hard to do your normal activities
• Having a low blood count
• Losing weight without trying to
• Having low iron levels in your blood

Conclusion

Recognizing the lesser-known signs of colorectal cancer is crucial for early detection and prompt intervention. If you notice any of these subtle symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. Regular screenings and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also play a vital role in preventing colorectal cancer. Remember, your well-being is worth every proactive step you take.

Together, let's raise awareness and empower individuals to prioritize their health by being vigilant about the signs of colorectal cancer.

It's important to note that these symptoms may also be caused by other conditions, but if they persist, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. By including these lesser-known signs in your blog post, you can help raise awareness about the diverse ways in which colorectal cancer can manifest, ultimately aiding in early detection and improved patient outcomes. Take our colorectal cancer assessment to learn more about when you should be screened for colorectal cancer, or find a digestive health specialist today.