Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
This disease shows no symptoms in its most curable stages; so all adults 50-74 years old should be screened regularly.
If you have none of the symptoms below you should get screened.
The primary symptom of colorectal cancer is blood (either bright red, very dark, black or tarry looking) in the stool. If you are experiencing this symptom consult your family doctor or primary health care provider immediately.
The following symptoms (experienced over a period of time) MAY be associated with colorectal cancer, but could have other causes:
- Change in bowel habits;
- Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely;
- Stools which are narrower than usual;
- General abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps);
- Weight loss for no known reason;
- Constant tiredness;
- Vomiting.
If you have some of these symptoms talk to your family doctor or primary health care provider.