Colon cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide, yet many people overlook its early symptoms because they seem mild or easily confused with common digestive issues. Recently, a woman who survived colon cancer shared her story and emphasized five symptoms that she once ignored—symptoms she now wants everyone to recognize. Her message is clear: the earlier colon cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment. Here are the five colon cancer symptoms that should never be dismissed, even if they appear insignificant at first.

1. Persistent Changes in Bowel Habits
The first symptom she noticed was a subtle change in her bowel habits. This included alternating between constipation and diarrhea, changes in stool consistency, and the feeling of not fully emptying after using the bathroom. While many people experience digestive fluctuations from time to time, persistent changes lasting more than a few weeks may signal a deeper issue. She emphasized that this was her earliest warning, but she assumed it was caused by stress or food intolerance—an assumption she now regrets.

2. Blood in the Stool or Dark-Colored Stool
One of the most alarming signs of colon cancer is the presence of blood in the stool. The woman recalled occasionally noticing red streaks or darker-than-usual stool but dismissed it as hemorrhoids. However, colon cancer can cause bleeding within the digestive tract, resulting in red, maroon, or even black tar-like stools. This is a symptom no one should ignore. Even if the cause turns out to be something less serious, bleeding is always a sign that medical attention is needed.

3. Chronic Abdominal Pain or Cramping
Another key symptom she experienced was frequent abdominal pain and cramping that felt different from normal indigestion. The discomfort would come and go but gradually became more persistent. She described it as a dull ache that sometimes intensified after eating. Colon cancer can cause blockages or inflammation within the colon, leading to ongoing discomfort. Many people attribute abdominal pain to diet, busy schedules, or digestive conditions, but prolonged or unusual pain deserves proper evaluation.

4. Fatigue and Unexplained Weakness
Fatigue was one symptom she never imagined could be related to colon cancer. She felt tired all the time, even after a full night’s rest. This is because slow internal bleeding from the colon can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, which decreases oxygen supply to the body and results in extreme tiredness. She noted that the fatigue gradually became worse, but she blamed it on aging and work stress. In reality, it was one of the most telling signs that something was wrong.

5. Unintentional Weight Loss
Significant or unexplained weight loss is often a sign of an underlying medical condition, including cancer. For her, losing several kilograms within a short period was the final sign that prompted her to seek medical advice. Colon cancer can affect metabolism and reduce appetite, leading to unintended weight loss. When combined with other symptoms, it becomes even more concerning.

Her story serves as a powerful reminder that colon cancer often develops quietly, and early symptoms may seem harmless. That is why awareness is crucial. If any of these symptoms persist for several weeks or appear together, it is important to seek medical evaluation. Early detection can save lives, as colon cancer is highly treatable when found in its early stages.