Colon cancer often develops silently, without causing any noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, certain signs and symptoms may emerge, urging you to seek medical attention. Here are some key ones to be aware of:

• Changes in bowel habits: This is the most common sign, including persistent diarrhea, constipation, or a change in stool consistency (narrower stools). You may also experience a sensation of incomplete bowel emptying after going to the toilet.
• Blood in stool: This can appear bright red, dark red, or tar-like, and while it might not always indicate cancer, it’s crucial to get it checked by a doctor regardless.
• Abdominal pain or cramping: Persistent abdominal pain, bloating, or discomfort, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, can be a sign of colon cancer.
• Unexplained weight loss: If you experience unexpected weight loss without trying, particularly alongside other symptoms, it warrants evaluation.
• Fatigue and weakness: Feeling tired and low on energy can be a general symptom of various conditions, but in conjunction with other signs, it shouldn’t be ignored.
• Iron deficiency anemia: This condition, characterized by low red blood cell count, can sometimes be caused by undetected blood loss from colon cancer.
• Rectal bleeding: While hemorrhoids can also cause rectal bleeding, persistent bleeding not explained by hemorrhoids requires medical attention.
• Changes in appetite: Loss of appetite or difficulty eating can be signs of various issues, including colon cancer.