Do You Have Colon Cancer? Symptom Checker

Colon Cancer Quiz: Ask Yourself These Questions

Worried about colon cancer? These questions can help you reflect on your symptoms and risk factors. While this isn’t a medical test, it’s a smart way to better understand what your body might be telling you.

Ask Yourself:

• Have you noticed blood in your stool or on toilet paper?
• Are you experiencing unexplained weight loss?
• Have your bowel habits changed recently (e.g., diarrhea, constipation, or narrower stools)?
• Do you feel fatigued or weak even after rest?
• Are you having persistent abdominal discomfort (cramps, gas, or pain)?
• Do you feel like you can't completely empty your bowel?
• Are you over the age of 45 or have a family history of colon cancer?

If you answered “yes” to one or more questions, it doesn't necessarily mean you have colon cancer, but it's a sign that you shouldn't ignore these symptoms. Book a visit with your doctor.

You can also use the Docus Colon Cancer Symptom Checker to better understand what your symptoms might mean and what steps to take next. 

Remember: it’s not a substitute for a real medical diagnosis or professional advice. If you're concerned, speak to a doctor.

What Is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is a disease that starts in the large intestine, also called the colon. It happens when cells in the colon grow in an unusual way and form a lump, known as a tumor.

In fact, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide.

This type of cancer often starts as small, harmless growths called polyps. Over time, some of these polyps can turn into cancer. Colon cancer symptoms may not appear early. That’s why it’s important to know what signs to watch for and when to speak to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

Early Signs to Watch For

In the early stages, colon cancer might not cause any pain. But you may still notice small changes in how your body feels.

Look out for:

• Blood in your stool or on toilet paper
• Changes in how often you go to the bathroom
• Stools that look thinner than usual
• Feeling like your bowel doesn't empty fully
• Tiredness that doesn’t go away

When Symptoms Might Be More Serious

As colon cancer grows, the signs can become harder to ignore. These might include:

• Ongoing stomach pain or cramps
• Unexplained weight loss
• Feeling weak or dizzy often
• Nausea or vomiting
• A sudden change in appetite

These symptoms don’t always mean cancer, but they should never be ignored. The sooner you check, the better your chances of finding answers.

What Causes Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer usually develops over time. It often begins when healthy cells in the lining of the colon start to grow too quickly and form small growths called polyps. Most polyps are harmless at first, but some can turn into cancer if they stay in the body for a long time.

The exact cause is still unknown, but several factors may raise the risk:

• You're over 50 years old
• You have a family history of colon cancer
• You eat a low-fiber, high-fat diet
• You don't move much during the day
• You smoke or drink alcohol often

Doctors usually recommend starting colon cancer screening around age 45. But if you’re having symptoms earlier, don’t wait.

How Is Colon Cancer Diagnosed?

If your symptoms suggest something serious, your doctor may recommend tests to look inside your colon.

The most common steps include:

• Physical exam and medical history: to understand your symptoms and risk factors
• Stool tests: to check for blood or other changes
• Colonoscopy: a test that uses a small camera to look inside your colon
• Imaging scans: like CT scans to see if the cancer has spread
• Biopsy: taking a small sample of tissue to look for cancer cells

Diagnosis might sound scary, but these tests help doctors understand what’s really going on and how to treat it.

Is Colon Cancer Treatable?

Yes, colon cancer is often treatable, especially when found early.

Many people recover fully if the cancer is caught in its early stages. Even in later stages, there are treatments that can help manage the condition and improve quality of life.

The key is not to wait. The sooner you check your symptoms and speak to a doctor, the better your chances of successful treatment.

Treatment depends on the size, location, and stage of the cancer. Common options include:

• Surgery: to remove the part of the colon that has cancer
• Radiation therapy: to shrink or target cancer cells, especially in rectal cancer
• Chemotherapy: to destroy cancer cells or stop them from spreading
• Targeted or immunotherapy: used in some cases to help the body fight the cancer

Doctors choose a treatment plan based on each person's needs. Sometimes, more than one type of treatment is used.

The most important thing is to act early.