10) Metastatic Colon Cancer Symptoms
Besides local symptoms discussed above, colon cancer can cause various symptoms due to metastasis (spread) of the tumor to the other organs. Metastatic symptoms usually develop in the advanced stages (stage 4) of the colon cancer and depend on the size of the tumor, the involvement of remote organs and lymph nodes. For instance:
- If the lungs are affected, the typical symptoms will be difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, and chest pain.
- Symptoms may include pain, fractures, and high calcium levels when the tumor has spread to the bones.
- If the lymph nodes of the abdominal organs such as stomach and pancreas are affected, it may cause a swollen belly, bloating, and loss of appetite.
- If the tumor has spread to the liver through lymph nodes, symptoms may include swelling of the hands and feet, nausea, fatigue, jaundice, and increased abdominal girth.
- If the brain is affected, the usual symptoms may include severe headaches, confusion, blurred or double vision, memory loss, seizures, and difficulty speaking.
ยป Now, let’s discuss the stages of colon cancer.
