Learn About the Signs, Symptoms, and Risks of Colon Cancer

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a health scare no person wishes to endure. Whether the news is for you, a friend, or a loved one, it can be a terrifying experience. At Texas Digestive Disease Consultants, we feel that being mindful of the risks surrounding cancer can enable you to better manage such a diagnosis. Knowing the indications, symptoms, and your family’s history of colon cancer can help you catch it early and often give you a wider range of treatments to consider.

How is colon cancer identified?

Colon and rectal cancer is a disease that starts in the colon (large intestine) or rectum. Also referred to as "colorectal cancer" or "bowel cancer,” this disease triggers cells in the rectum or colon to multiply out of control. Cancer of the colon can commonly be treated when detected early. We suggest that people aged 45 and above have a regular colon cancer screening in DFW to reduce their risk of having this disease go undiagnosed. If you have had a family member with colon or rectal cancer or if you have been diagnosed with a digestive disease, like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, it is essential to get screened for colon and rectal cancer as soon as you turn 45.

Review signs and symptoms for better colon awareness

Apart from undergoing colon cancer screenings on a periodic basis, it is also important to become familiar with common colon cancer signs and symptoms. Though they might not be obvious in the beginning, knowing what these indications are might help to diagnose the condition as early as possible.

Typical signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer can include the following:

• Changes in bowel habits or bowel movements

• Blood in your stool

• Loose stools or constipation

• Persistent aches, pains, or abdominal cramps

• Unintentional weight loss

• Incomplete bowel movements

These signs or symptoms may seem indistinct, but if they occur repetitively, it is wise to reserve a consultation at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants so we can evaluate your health concerns. Our DFW gastroenterologists would rather err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

Will I develop colon cancer if it runs in my family?

In the event you have a relative who has or has had colon cancer, you may have an elevated risk of developing the disease. We encourage you to use this information to your benefit and make ideal choices about when to get colorectal cancer screenings.

It is essential that when talking with a gastroenterologist, you offer as much of your family medical history as you know. During your appointment, it is wise to discuss the medical history of your immediate family members, including your father, mother, sisters, and brothers, as well as your extended family (grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and more). You should relay the form of cancer your relative had, when it was discovered, and if it resulted in death. Providing these details can help our team establish the best possible preventive plan for your needs.

At Texas Digestive Disease Consultants, we might advise you to get a colonoscopy around age 30 if an immediate member of your family has had colon cancer. In the event the relative is not immediate, we recommend starting colorectal cancer screenings around age 45.

Schedule a colon cancer screening in DFW

Though being diagnosed with cancer is always terrifying, having knowledge of the signs, symptoms, and your family history can allow you to understand your risks for the disease and receive a diagnosis in the early stages. At Texas Digestive Disease Consultants, our team is here for you and ready to help you get screened for colorectal cancer. To partner with a gastroenterologist in DFW, contact our offices for an appointment.