Colorectal Cancer Signs, Symptoms and Types

Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer is essential, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates. If you have any concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to call us to schedule an appointment. At Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, our health care professionals are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

What are the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer?

The signs of colorectal cancer could also be signs of other digestive conditions. It’s important to see a health care provider for an evaluation if you notice:

• Changes in bowel habits: You may have diarrhea, constipation or a change in the shape or consistency of your stool that lasts more than a few days. Your stool may look stringy or thin. You may feel like your bowel doesn’t empty all the way.
• Blood in your stool or rectal bleeding: You might see bright red or very dark blood in your stool or on toilet paper after you wipe. Your stool may look dark brown or black.
• Discomfort or pain: You may feel uncomfortable or notice pain during bowel movements or have cramps, gas, bloating, a full feeling or pain that doesn’t go away. You might have discomfort when you’re sitting.
• Vomiting: You may vomit for no obvious reason.
• Unexplained weight loss, change in appetite or fatigue: These can be signs of many types of more advanced cancer, including colorectal cancer.

Types of polyps

In the early stages of colorectal cancer, many people may not show any symptoms. One of the most common indicators is a polyp—a small, non-cancerous growth on the colon wall that has the potential to become cancerous. As these polyps grow, they can lead to issues like bleeding or intestinal blockage. If bleeding occurs, you might notice blood in your stool, and a blood test could reveal a low red blood cell count. 

There are several different types of polyps, including:

• Hyperplastic polyps and inflammatory polyps: These polyps are usually not precancerous. If they are bigger than one centimeter, your provider may recommend screening with colonoscopy more often.
• Adenomatous polyps (adenomas): These polyps are considered precancerous because they sometimes change into cancer. There are three subtypes: tubular, villous and tubulovillous. 
• Sessile serrated polyps (SSPs) and traditional serrated adenomas (TSAs): These polyps have a higher risk of changing into cancer and are usually treated like adenomas.

When should I see my doctor?

Many of the symptoms of colorectal cancer can be caused by other health conditions, such as infection, hemorrhoids or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If you are experiencing one or more symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor to determine the cause and be treated. 

It is especially important to see your doctor right away if you find blood in your stool or if other symptoms last more than two weeks. 

In addition, regular screening tests may help identify cancer before you notice any symptoms. Screening for colorectal cancer is important for early detection when treatment is most effective. 

Learn about screening for and diagnosis of colon cancer and rectal cancer.  

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