Colon cancer originates in the large intestine. Symptoms vary considerably depending on the cancer’s location within the colon. Understanding these differences helps recognize potential signs.
Understanding Right-Sided Colon Cancer
Right-sided colon cancer develops in the first segments of the large intestine: the ascending colon and the initial portion of the transverse colon. This region is wider than the left side, allowing tumors to grow larger before causing noticeable symptoms. Stool in this part of the colon is also more liquid, meaning a tumor is less likely to cause an immediate blockage. These anatomical differences contribute to the distinct symptom profile of right-sided colon cancers.
Common Symptoms of Right-Sided Colon Cancer
Right-sided colon cancer often presents with subtle symptoms that can be easily overlooked in early stages. A frequent initial sign is iron-deficiency anemia, leading to ongoing tiredness and general weakness.
Individuals may also experience vague abdominal pain or discomfort, often described as a dull ache or cramp in the right abdomen. Unexplained weight loss, occurring without changes in diet or exercise, is another common symptom.
Subtle changes in bowel habits, such as new or altered patterns of diarrhea or constipation, can also occur. In advanced cases, a doctor might feel a mass in the lower right abdomen during an examination.
Why These Symptoms Occur
The symptoms associated with right-sided colon cancer arise from specific processes. Iron-deficiency anemia and the resulting fatigue are often due to the tumor slowly bleeding into the digestive tract. This chronic, often invisible, blood loss gradually depletes the body’s iron stores, which are necessary for producing red blood cells.
Vague abdominal pain typically results from the tumor stretching or irritating the colon lining, rather than causing an immediate obstruction. The pain can also stem from inflammation around the tumor.
Unexplained weight loss is linked to factors like increased metabolic demands, loss of appetite, or difficulty absorbing nutrients. Changes in bowel habits, while not usually obstructive, occur because the tumor irritates the bowel wall, subtly altering stool passage.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Anyone experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms should consult a healthcare professional without delay. Early detection of colon cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
It is important to avoid self-diagnosis, as many signs can indicate less serious conditions. A doctor can conduct appropriate evaluations and tests to determine the underlying cause of symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis.