Indigestion, Or Something Worse? What Your Symptoms Are Saying

If you suffer from pain, gas or bloating, it might just be something you ate. But if that’s coupled with diarrhea, constipation or rectal bleeding, and it happens often, there may be something more serious at work.

Many of the symptoms of colorectal cancer don’t occur until the cancer has reached an advanced stage. But sometimes they do appear earlier, and often mimic stomach upset or other gastric conditions. If you are experiencing:

• Abdominal pain or tenderness
• Bloody stool (bright red or dark)
• Ongoing diarrhea or constipation
• Narrower than normal stools
• Unexplained weight loss
• Ongoing bloating, fullness or cramps

you should see your physician, as you may need a colon cancer evaluation. At the very least, there’s something wrong with your system, and your doctor can work with you to pinpoint the case and take steps to set things right.