Signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer may not cause any signs or symptoms in its early stages because the lower abdomen (stomach area) has lots of room for a tumour to grow and expand. Symptoms often appear once the tumour causes bleeding blocks the bowel.
Possible symptoms may include:
- a change in bowel habits
- blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool
- diarrhea, constipation or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- stools that are narrower than usual
- general abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness or cramps)
- unexplained weight loss
- feeling very tired
- vomiting
Other health problems can cause some of the same symptoms. Testing is needed to make a diagnosis
Last modified on:
19 August 2010
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