Colorectal cancer is a silent killer that often does not present any symptoms in the early stages, when it is the easiest to treat. This is why screening is important even when you do not notice any symptoms. Nonetheless, it is important to be aware of what the various colorectal cancer symptoms are – you should consult your family doctor or gastroenterologist without delay if you notice these symptoms.
Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
- Blood in the stool or bleeding from the rectum.
- Changes in bowel habits.
- Persistent abdominal discomfort or pain.
- Incomplete emptying of the bowel.
- Unexplained weight loss.
Diagnostic Tests / Medical Imaging
If your family doctor or gastroenterologist suspects colorectal cancer, a number of tests may be ordered to confirm the cancer:
Colonoscopy
During colonoscopy, a long, flexible and slender tube attached to a video camera and monitor is inserted into the colon via the anus to allow the doctor to view the inside of the colon and rectum. Surgical tools through the tube may be used to take tissue samples and remove polyps.
Tissue Biopsy
During a biopsy, a sample of tissue is removed for lab testing. In the case for colorectal cancer, the tissue sample is collected during colonoscopy in most cases, or via surgery. Lab tests may then show if the cells are cancerous, the speed at which they are spreading, and also provide other information about the cells.
Blood Tests & Tumour Markers
Blood tests are not used to diagnose colorectal cancer, but may yield useful information on your overall health, and your kidney and liver functions. A low level of red blood cells might be indicative of bleeding caused by cancer.
A protein called CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) may be produced by colorectal cancer cells. Tumour marker tests can track the level of CEA over time to show whether the treatment is working. Following successful treatment, CEA blood tests may be used to detect if there is a recurrence of the cancer.
Consult Our Preferred Gastroenterologist
Dr Benjamin Yip is a Consultant Gastroenterologist in Singapore, and the Medical Director at Alpha Digestive & Liver Centre Dr Yip has interest in endoscopy and regularly performs general endoscopies including gastroscopy and colonoscopy (diagnostic and therapeutic).
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