Cancer of the colon is considered to be one of the most painful among all types. People with colon cancer suffer considerable health concerns and pain, depending on the stage of the disease. Sometimes, the early signs are ignored, and the condition turns out to be serious. Also, if you have a genetic history of colon cancer, then you can follow a few tips to prevent it from affecting you. So, here are some of the signs and prevention tips for colon cancer.
Signs of Colon Cancer
Some of the predominant signs of colon cancer are:
- Changes in Bowel Movement
Most of the signs of colon cancer are related to bowel problems. They are common, often ignored, and, therefore, must be mention in a discussion about the signs and prevention tips for colon cancer. A change in bowel habits, be it diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, is a major symptom and will typically last for a few days, getting worse with time. - Dark Stool
This happens to be one of the earliest symptoms of colon cancer and is often ignored as something resulting from indigestion. Over time, this dark stool might be accompanied by abdominal pain and cramping that can get unbearable. - Rectal Bleeding
Quite a threatening symptom, any kind of rectal bleeding is, in most cases, a sign of colon cancer. You should report it to the doctor immediately and get a colonoscopy done to understand the stage of the disease.
Prevention Tips for Colon Cancer
The following are some of the possible ways in which you can prevent colon cancer.
- Get Screened
Colorectal screenings are tests that detect cancer even before it develops. These tests can detect polyps that can be removed and, thus, prevented from turning cancerous. For anyone who is 45 years of age or above, these screenings are highly recommended and an important point of discussion in the study of the signs and prevention tips for colon cancer. - Have Lots of Fruits, Vegetables, and Whole Grains
Diets including a sufficient amount of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are linked with a lower risk of rectal or colon cancer. Reduce the proportion of red meat in your diet to a minimum to stay away from the probability of colon cancer. - Reduce the Intake of Alcohol
Increased consumption of alcohol has also been linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that not more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women can be consumed. Also, smokers are more prone to colon cancer than non-smokers.
With awareness and knowledge of the signs and prevention tips for colon cancer, you and your loved ones can avoid the considerable suffering caused by this type of cancer.