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The early stages of CRC may not produce notable, obvious symptoms. It is possible to have CRC without any symptoms. Over time, as polyps grow, they have a tendency to intermittently bleed or block the intestine. Therefore, people with the following conditions should consult their physician, as they may be an indication of CRC:1

  • A change in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool that lasts for more than a few days
  • A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so
  • Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool (often, though, the stool will look normal)
  • Cramping or steady abdominal (stomach area) pain
  • Weakness and fatigue

It is important to keep in mind that these symptoms can be the result of other conditions, including infections, hemorrhoids, and inflammatory bowel disease.

1The American Cancer Society, (www.cancer.org), 2/9/2006.