Colorectal Cancer, Metastatic or Recurrent - Symptoms

SYMPTOMS & TREATMENTS

Some people who have metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer do not have any symptoms for some time. When symptoms do appear, the most common ones are:

  • A change in bowel habits, such as narrow stools or frequent diarrhea or constipation.
  • Blood in the stool, or stools that look like black tar.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Pain in the belly.
  • Unexplained weight loss.
  • Constant tiredness (fatigue).

If your cancer has spread, you may have other symptoms, depending on where the cancer is. If it has spread to:

  • The lymph nodes of your abdomen, it may cause bloating, a swollen belly, loss of appetite, or a feeling of fullness.
  • The liver, it may cause pain on the upper right side of your abdomen, bloating, loss of appetite, or a feeling of fullness.
  • The lungs, it may cause coughing, spitting up blood, or a hard time breathing.
  • The bones, it may cause bone pain, especially in the back, hips, and pelvis.
  • The brain, it may cause problems with memory, concentration, balance, or movement.
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: September 13, 2010
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology

© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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