Colorectal Cancer Symptoms

Colorectal cancer, commonly referred to as bowel cancer, is caused by uncontrolled cell growth within the appendix, colon, or rectum.  This type of cancer is often due to increased age, lifestyle habits, and sometimes genetic disorders.  Colorectal cancer often begins in the bowel lining and can spread to the surrounding muscle layers, and then into the bowel wall.

Colorectal cancer symptoms include:

- Extended cases of diarrea or constipation
- Narrowing of stools
- Unrelieved by bowel movements
- Rectal bleeding
- Dark or bloody stools
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Weakness/fatigue
- Weight loss

Effective screening and early detection of colorectal cancer drastically improves the survival rate.  Regular testing via sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy is recommended for people between the age of 50 to 75 years.