How To Easily Differentiate Between Colorectal Cancer or GI Disorder
Colorectal cancer is the most infamous member of the digestive tract diseases family. In the same way human families have many similarities, colorectal cancer also has many similarities with other members of its family (gastrointestinal disorders) symptom wise.
The other members in the family that can show similar symptoms to colorectal cancer include irritable bowel syndrome(IBS), hemorrhoids, and irritable Bowel diseases (IBD).
While these other diseases can show similar symptoms to colorectal cancer, IBS is by far the most similar condition that can be mistaken as colorectal cancer and vice versa.
Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
There is no definitive way of diagnosing IBS. There is no specific test or lab work that can be leveraged to detect this condition as the symptoms appear and disappear, and at random intervals.
However, there are major indicators for IBS. The main symptoms are typically constipation or diarrhea. In some cases it could also be a combination of both.
In addition to the two flagship symptoms, a person with IBS may also experience any or a combination of the following.
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* Bloating of the abdomen
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* Observable mucus in the stool
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* Perceived incomplete bowel movement
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* Disappearance of symptoms after bowel movement
You can normally determine if you have IBS by tracking how long you've had any or a combination of these symptoms. According to experts, you can be sure it's IBS if the symptoms have shown for at least six months with a minimum one day of pain per week over the last three months.
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Closely similar to IBS, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain are main symptoms of colorectal cancer. However, despite these similar symptoms, the presence of colorectal cancer features distinct, additional and more extensive symptoms than IBS.
Inexplicable and sudden unexpected weight loss, bloody stools or rectal bleeding are some of the more concerning additional symptoms.
A person with early stage colorectal cancer might experience;
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* Change in stool size, especially thinning out.
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* Extended periods of tiredness
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* Haphazard change in appetite
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* Feeling full constantly
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* Perceived bowel movement when there is isn't
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* Additional straining effort to pass stool
Should you experience more than one of these symptoms at a time, and for extended periods, especially if it is sudden, make sure to see a doctor immediately you notice.
When Should You See The Doctor
Once your symptoms last more than two weeks, ensure that you visit the doctor. Depending on your age, symptoms, medical history and genetic cancer history, your doctor will decide the next course of action.
Your doctor will want to rule out IBD as the cause of the symptoms as they also share similarities with IBS and colorectal cancer.
He can decide to run diagnostic tests or do a colonoscopy/CT scan. Whether you'll need to visit a colorectal surgeon is dependent on your doctor's conclusion.
It is important to note that extended periods of inflammation from IBDs - ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, significantly increase the risk of having colorectal cancer. So, do well to ensure that you consult a colorectal surgeon when you notice anything amiss.
