What are the symptoms of rectal cancer?

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Symptoms of Rectal Cancer

Common Symptoms of Rectal Cancer

Rectal Bleeding and Changes in Bowel Habits

Rectal bleeding is one of the most frequently reported symptoms of rectal cancer. It is often an early indicator and is more common among cancer cases compared to non-cancer cases . Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or a change in stool consistency, are also commonly reported . These symptoms can sometimes be misattributed to less serious conditions, leading to delays in diagnosis.

Pain and Discomfort

Pain is another significant symptom associated with rectal cancer. It can vary in location and intensity, sometimes mimicking upper gastrointestinal issues. Pain is particularly notable in cases of local recurrence of rectal cancer, where it is more prevalent compared to patients without recurrence. Additionally, pain can be a presenting symptom in rare cases, such as when rectal cancer manifests as a perirectal abscess.

Systemic Symptoms: Fatigue and Weight Loss

Systemic symptoms like fatigue and weight loss are also common among rectal cancer patients. Fatigue is reported by a large majority of rectal cancer survivors, significantly impacting their quality of life . Weight loss, when accompanied by other symptoms like rectal bleeding, can increase the likelihood of a rectal cancer diagnosis.

Gastrointestinal and Urogenital Symptoms

Patients often experience a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel function. Urogenital symptoms, such as urinary incontinence or difficulty urinating, are also reported, particularly in cases of local recurrence.

Symptom Clusters and Their Impact

Symptom Clusters in Survivors

Research has identified distinct symptom clusters among rectal cancer survivors. These clusters include groups of patients who experience minimal symptoms, those who are primarily fatigued and have trouble sleeping, and those with moderate to severe symptoms. Understanding these clusters can help tailor supportive care strategies to minimize ongoing symptoms and improve quality of life.

Impact on Quality of Life

The presence and severity of symptoms like fatigue, bowel dysfunction, and pain have a profound impact on the quality of life of rectal cancer patients. Effective symptom management, particularly during treatments like chemoradiotherapy, is crucial to maintaining quality of life and ensuring treatment adherence.

Conclusion

Rectal cancer presents with a variety of symptoms, including rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, pain, systemic symptoms like fatigue and weight loss, and gastrointestinal and urogenital issues. Recognizing these symptoms early and understanding their impact on patients' quality of life is essential for timely diagnosis and effective management. Tailored supportive care strategies based on symptom clusters can significantly improve outcomes for rectal cancer survivors.