Signs of Weakness, Fatigue, or Lightheadedness
One of the indications of colon cancer is experiencing weakness, tiredness, or lightheadedness. This can occur when colon cancer leads to bleeding in the intestines. Over time, chronic bleeding can result in anemia, causing symptoms of weakness and fatigue due to iron deficiency. In addition, the presence of cancer itself can cause fatigue, even without significant bleeding. This is attributed to the release of specific proteins into the bloodstream or the cancer’s consumption of the body’s energy as it grows. It’s important to note that tiredness can be a symptom of various types of cancer, not exclusive to colon cancer.
Changes in Bowel Habits: A Potential Sign of Colon Cancer
One of the key symptoms of colon cancer is a noticeable change in bowel habits. Individuals who typically have regular, solid bowel movements may start experiencing a higher frequency of stools that are looser in consistency. These alterations in bowel habits can occur consistently or intermittently. While diarrhea is commonly associated with benign conditions and tends to resolve within a few days, it can also serve as a warning sign of colon cancer when it persists for more than a couple of weeks.