What Are the Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?

People with colorectal cancer often do not have symptoms right away. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may have grown up or spread to other organs, which may make treating it harder. That’s why routine screening is important.

As cancers in the colon and rectum grow, warning signs may arise. You should tell your doctor and get prompt medical attention if you notice any of these signs.

• A change in bowel habits that lasts for more than a few days. This includes diarrhea, constipation, or a sensation that your bowel is still not empty after a bowel movement.

• Bright red or very dark blood in your stool.

• Constant tiredness

• Stools that are thinner than usual

• Stools that appear slimy or that have a mucous film on them

• Persistent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps

• Unexplained weight loss

• Vomiting

• Yellow skin, also called jaundice

These symptoms may be caused by colorectal cancer or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to check with a doctor to be sure.