The first signs of bowel cancer

Bowel cancer is considered one of the most insidious types of cancer. Initially, it develops without symptoms, which reduces the likelihood of recovery. Also, signs of intestinal cancer and its first symptoms may indicate other diseases, so a timely diagnosis will increase the chances of treating the tumour. That is why it is necessary to notice the first signs of bowel cancer on time.

Symptoms

Bowel cancer goes unnoticed for some time. Consider the symptoms and the first signs of bowel cancer that can warn of a neoplasm:

• The presence of bloody streaks and blood in faecal secretions;
• mucus during bowel movements;
• unusual changes in digestion, leading to the alternation of diarrhoea and constipation;
• faecal stool becomes thin in shape;
• frequent urge to defecate without leading to a bowel movement;
• Recurring cramping/abdominal pain;
• observation of nausea, increased flatulence, and loss of appetite;
• a feeling of constant fatigue and decreased performance;
• significant weight loss; paleness of the skin, as in the case of anaemia.

However, observing these symptoms, you should not make hasty conclusions, as they may signal some less dangerous disease.

The first signs of bowel cancer in women and men

Symptoms of a tumour in the intestines in women may be slightly different. So, with the spread of tumour neoplasm behind the intestinal wall and damage to neighbouring organs, there are other first signs of cancer along with the symptoms described above characteristic for women. If a tumour has affected the lower part of the intestine, then it can touch the anus and female genitals. A woman would experience pain in the rectum and then in the back.

Signs

The germination of a neoplasm in the back wall of the vagina may occur. Then, a rectovaginal fistula may appear, leading to stool leakage. Blood, purulent discharges and pain during urination may also appear.

The first signs of bowel cancer are common in men and women. A tumour may affect the upper and middle parts of the intestine. Then, most likely, it can grow into the bladder and form a fistula. In this case, urinary tract infection occurs in men, the fever begins, and gases and faeces accompany bladder emptying.