Often, people get worried that their long-term constipation might be a sign of intestinal or colon cancer. In most cases, constipation is not the cause of cancer.
Constipation and cancer
Due to today's fast-paced lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits, stress, and lack of physical activity, constipation has become a common problem. Millions of people around the world struggle with this problem daily. Occasional constipation is common and often overlooked. However, when this problem persists for a long time, it can become a cause for concern. People often fear that their long-term constipation may be a sign of intestinal or colon cancer. In most cases, constipation is not caused by cancer, but rather by lifestyle and dietary factors. However, in certain situations, constipation can also be a sign of a serious illness. So, let us explain when constipation can become cancer and when to be cautious.
What is constipation?
Constipation is defined as irregular bowel movements, hard stools, straining, and passing stools less than 2–3 times a week. When this persists for 3 weeks or more, it is called chronic constipation. Common symptoms include passing stools less than 2 or more times a week, very hard or dry stools, inability to empty the bowels even after straining, and heaviness or gas in the abdomen. Most cases of constipation are caused by a diet low in fiber, inadequate hydration, lack of physical activity, prolonged sedentary work, side effects of certain medications, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
When does constipation become cancer?
In most cases, constipation does not lead to cancer. However, in certain situations, prolonged constipation can be a sign of cancer. Constipation is considered dangerous if it persists for more than three weeks, there is a sudden change in bowel habits, bloody or black stools appear in the stool, or unexplained weight loss occurs. Constant fatigue, persistent abdominal pain, heaviness, or lumps, and alternating constipation and diarrhea are common. In such cases, colon cancer screening becomes necessary. As colon cancer progresses, it narrows the intestinal tract, preventing stool from moving forward. This can cause persistent constipation, pain, and bleeding. However, cancer only causes constipation after it has progressed significantly. Cancer only causes constipation when the tumor becomes large enough to partially block the intestinal tract. Initially, constipation alone is not usually a sign of cancer.
When should one be cautious about this?
1. Constipation lasts for more than three weeks and doesn't improve with diet changes, water intake, or home remedies.
2. If blood is seen in the stool, red blood or black stool, it could be a sign of an internal problem.
3. Persistent or severe abdominal pain, especially if it persists daily. A feeling of heaviness or a lump in the abdomen.
4. Unexplained weight loss: Weight loss without changing your diet is a danger sign.
5. Feeling extremely tired or weak, and fatigue that doesn't improve even after resting.
6. Sudden changes in bowel habits. Everything was fine before, but now you suddenly become constipated, or your constipation and diarrhea alternate frequently.
7. Persistent constipation for the first time after the age of 45–50. New digestive problems at this age should not be ignored.
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor or relevant specialist before undertaking any new activity or exercise.
