6 Warning Signs That Could Indicate Colorectal Cancer or a Tumor in Your Large Intestine

6 Warning Signs That Could Indicate Colorectal Cancer or a Tumor in Your Large Intestine
(Illustration - Shutterstock)
Epoch Inspired Staff
5/10/2019
Updated:
3/21/2023

We have all experienced various forms of gastric troubles from time to time, but there are more serious forms of stomach disease that one should be aware of. Here are a few warning signs and symptoms that might indicate a tumor, or colorectal cancer.

By paying attention to your stomach whenever there is pain or whenever you notice bowel movement irregularities, one might be able to prevent more serious consequences.

Illustration - Shutterstock | <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-illustration/illustration-human-large-intestine-anatomy-206873113?src=PfGoAT29WN1A36JKFMtfxA-1-4">S K Chavan</a>
Illustration - Shutterstock | S K Chavan

The U.S. National Library of Medicine explains: “The colon and rectum are part of the large intestine. Colorectal cancer occurs when tumors form in the lining of the large intestine. It is common in both men and women. The risk of developing colorectal cancer rises after age 50.”

Here are six signs and symptoms that may indicate that you could have a tumor in your large intestine that you should not ignore.

#1. Stomachache

Illustration - Shutterstock | <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/young-woman-stomach-pain-686243263?src=eTqL6WmxbDqcAADYaJy-Kw-1-4">sebra</a>
Illustration - Shutterstock | sebra
If you experience frequent stomachaches, have yourself tested. “Prevention is better than a cure.” Don’t ignore cramping, belly pain gas, or queasiness.

#2. Feelings of weakness or fatigue

Illustration - Shutterstock | <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/unpleasant-pain-sad-unhappy-handsome-man-1060449161">YAKOBCHUK VIACHESLAV</a>
Illustration - Shutterstock | YAKOBCHUK VIACHESLAV
Feeling weak and always fatigued may indicate serious illnesses. This sense of exhaustion is different from the usual tiredness one experiences from work or feeling sleepy at night.

#3. Rectal bleeding

Illustration - Shutterstock | <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/blood-stains-on-white-background-126885983">Oksana Mizina</a>
Illustration - Shutterstock | Oksana Mizina
The American Cancer Society states that rectal bleeding may be associated with colorectal cancer. Watch out for bloody stool, dark stool, or bright-red blood in the stool.

#4. Change in bowel habits and routine

Illustration - Shutterstock | <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/man-holding-his-penis-on-the-702255454?src=wIV2kMcVaXhJerw6rkiKRw-1-3">Seksan 99</a>
Illustration - Shutterstock | Seksan 99
The American Cancer Society writes that one of the symptoms of colorectal cancer is “a change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool.”

#5. Feeling like your bowel is never completely empty

Illustration - Shutterstock | <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/elderly-man-suffering-belly-pain-bedroom-129934751?src=gMaOeJfeFLJWhPtjNk5LjQ-1-100">ESB Professional</a>
Illustration - Shutterstock | ESB Professional
Another symptom to take notice of is “a feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by having one,” says the American Cancer Society.

#6. Sudden weight loss

Illustration - Shutterstock | <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/lose-weight-concept-woman-standing-on-1008560212?src=zDvt2aD3YFagnvBvJnrs5A-3-39">panchanok premsrirut</a>
Illustration - Shutterstock | panchanok premsrirut

If you are losing weight all the time, please don’t ignore it; your body is telling you it needs help. Go for a checkup.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

You may also want to watch this video

Unhealthy Competition: Driven To Anorexia By Sibling Rivalry
Epoch Inspired staff cover stories of hope that celebrate kindness, traditions, and triumph of the human spirit, offering valuable insights into life, culture, family and community, and nature.
Related Topics