Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancers across the world. The cancer develops in the lining of the colon or the large intestine. Every year there are more than 101,000 cases of colon cancer in the United States. Presently, it is the third most significant cause of cancer-related deaths in the country. 

Early warning symptoms of colon cancer
Some of the  early warning symptoms of colon cancer  are: 

Unjustified weight loss
Experiencing weight loss, which is sudden, and unwanted is often linked to colon cancer. If the weight reduction in the past six months is ten pounds or higher without any change in diet or workout regime, there could be an underlying problem. Colon cancer can cause weight reduction in different ways. When a person has cancer, the harmful cancerous cells tend to consume massive energy. Simultaneously, the immune system uses energy to fight cancer.

Additionally, these cancerous cells release certain substances in the body, which might alter the manner in which food converts to energy. As a result, a person might experience weight loss. Moreover, when the tumor present in the colon grows in size, it blocks the colon, which can hamper the bowel habits and result in weight loss. 

Weakness or fatigue
Many times, fatigue gets disregarded as tiredness. However, if the tiredness does not seem to go away even after proper rest, this could be a sign of fatigue, which is a prominent colon cancer symptom. 

Abdominal cramps
We have all experienced minor cramps in our lives. However, if the camps started suddenly and are severe or more prolonged than usual, it could be an indication of colon cancer. As colon cancer starts in the large intestine, it has a direct impact on bowel habits, which might lead to abdominal pain, bloating, and cramps. 

Blood in the stool
A significant sign of colon cancer is the occurrence of blood in the stool. At times, you might see bright red blood spots, while in other cases, the blood might not be clearly visible. Depending upon the severity and the location, you will experience different symptoms. At times, the stool may be black or dark in appearance. It could be an indication of blood, which has already dried.

Rectal bleeding
If there is any blood coming from the rectum or the lower colon, it could also be a sign of colon cancer. If you see blood stains on your toilet paper following a bowel release or pink or red water in the flush, it could be a symptom of the rectum bleeding. In any case, the presence of blood in stool is a cause of worry. So, it would be best if you visited your doctor immediately. 

Bowel habits change
If there is a change in bowel habits change or stool consistency, it can be an early warning symptom of colon cancer.