Colonoscopies are instrumental in detecting colon cancer early, when it's most treatable. They can also identify polyps (clumps of cells), which can be removed before they develop into cancer. Sounds like a no brainer, however, many people don’t know when when to get one. While routine screenings should start at age 45 (or earlier if you have a high risk factors or a family history, more here), certain symptoms may indicate the need for a colonoscopy sooner.

Here are seven signs to watch out for:

1. Change in Bowel Habits

Consistent diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool that lasts longer than four weeks.

2. Rectal Bleeding or Blood in Stool

Finding blood on the toilet paper or seeing dark, tarry stools can indicate a problem in the colon or rectum and should be evaluated.

3. Persistent Abdominal Discomfort

Cramps, gas, pain, or feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely could be warning signs. If these symptoms persist for longer than four weeks, it's time to check with a doctor.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without any change in diet or exercise is always a red flag for various health conditions, including colon cancer.

5. Weakness or Fatigue

Continuous tiredness or weakness that doesn't go away with rest might be a symptom of a larger issue, including problems in the colon.

6. Iron-Deficiency Anemia

A sudden drop in iron without a clear cause could be due to a slow bleeding in the colon, leading to anemia.

7. Personal or Family History

If you or a close family member has had colon polyps or colon cancer before, it's crucial to get checked earlier and more frequently.

Conclusion:

While these signs don't necessarily mean you have colon cancer, they are indicators that something might be amiss in your digestive system. A colonoscopy is a safe and effective procedure to get a clear view of your colon's health. There are also alternatives if you need to screen for colon cancer, even tests you can do at home!

If you experience any of these signs, consult with your doctor about the next steps. Early detection is the key to optimal outcomes.

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References

_{American Cancer Society. (2021). Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer.}

_{National Health Service (NHS). (2018). Rectal bleeding.}

_{Mayo Clinic. (2019). Blood in stool (rectal bleeding).}

_{Mayo Clinic. (2019). Unexplained weight loss.}

_{MedlinePlus. (2020). Abdominal pain.}

_{National Cancer Institute. (2019). Fatigue (PDQ®)–Patient Version.}

_{Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2019). Colorectal (Colon) Cancer: What Should I Know About Screening?}