Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and colon cancer affect the digestive system and may present similar symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating and changes in bowel motion. However, they are fundamentally different conditions. IBS is a chronic but life-threatening disorder that affects how your intestine works, while colon cancer is a serious disease caused by pathological cell growth in the colon or rectum. An error for another may delay the correct treatment, so recognizing key differences is important for early diagnosis and the best results.
What causes colon cancer and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
IBS is considered a functional gastrointestinal disorder. This means that it does not cause visible damage to the colon, but affects how the muscles and nerves work. General triggers include stress, anxiety, food intolerance (such as dairy or gluten), infections or hormonal fluctuations. The exact reason is unknown, but it often includes misconception between the brain and the intestines.The colon cancer, on the other hand, is caused by genetic mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth. Usually it begins as small, heavy polyps in the lining of the colon, which can become malignant over time. Risk factors include age (especially more than 45 years), a high content of red or processed meat, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, alcohol, a family history of rectum and inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn.
Ibs vs Symptoms of colon cancer : How different samples and triggers
Symptoms of IBS is usually prolonged and found in cycles. People often experience cramps in the abdomen, bloating, excess gas and alternation of attacks of diarrhea and constipation. These symptoms can be released after emptying the intestines and are often deteriorating with stress or certain food. Despite the inconvenience, IBS does not lead to serious physical damage and complications.Symptoms of colon cancer tend to first become thinner and become more noticeable as the tumor grows. Prevention marks include sustainable changes in the intestinal habits (such as diarrhea, constipation or narrowing of the chair that lasts more than a few days), rectal bleeding or blood in chairs, inexplicable weight loss and constant fatigue. Unlike IBS, these symptoms tend to deteriorate over time and are not associated with food and stress.
Abdominal pain in IBS against colon cancer: location, relief and intensity
In IBS, abdominal pain is usually similar to cramps and often occur in the lower abdomen. It is usually relieved either at least decreasing after the passage of gas or bowel transition. Pain can fluctuate throughout the day and are often associated with a sense of relevance or incomplete evacuation.The colon cancer pain may not occur until the cancer progresses. It may feel constant pain or pressure in the abdomen or rectum. Usually, this pain does not disappear after using the toilet and can be accompanied by a sense of completeness, especially when the tumor blocks part of the intestine.
Fatigue and weight loss: Why are they red flags for colon cancer rather than IBS
One of the main differences between IBS and colon cancer is the presence of inexplicable weight loss and chronic fatigue. In IBS, the weight is usually stable if a person does not avoid too many foods and eats very little of the symptom fears. Fatigue can occur from a bad sleep or stress, but this is not an immediate symptom.Unlike this, unintentional weight loss and fatigue are classic signs of colon cancer, especially in combination with other symptoms. Cancer cells consume a lot of energy and interfere with normal body function, leaving you tired and weak. If you lose weight without trying and feel constantly merged, it’s a red flag that cannot be ignored.
Blood in stool: a rare sign IB but a serious symptom in colon cancer
Blood in the stool rarely in the COD, unless hemorrhoids are present. In solitude, the CRC is unlikely to see a red or black stool. However, colon cancer often causes bleeding, especially when the tumor irritates or blur the intestinal wall. You may notice the bright red blood on toilet paper, in a bowl or darker, delicious stools that suggest bleeding from the higher -up in the colon. This is one of the most important symptoms that require an immediate medical evaluation.If you have had symptoms of IBS over the years and your image has not changed, it is usually managed by diet, stress control and medication. However, if you are more than 45 years old, or notice a sudden shift in symptoms such as constipation of a new, persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding or unintentional weight loss, you should consult your doctor immediately. Colonoscopy or other tests may be required to exclude colon cancer. Early detection greatly improves survival, making the timely evaluation of the necessary.While IBS and colon cancer can divide similar symptoms such as bloating and bowel habits, they differ significantly because of the severity and long -term effects. IBS is usually amenable to managing and life -threatening, whereas the colon cancer requires surgical diagnosis and treatment. Keep track of red flags such as rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss and fatigue, especially if you are over 45 years old. If your normal IBS symptoms suddenly change or deteriorate, consult your doctor without delay. Early detection can be rescue.Also read: Often use in nutrition can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes: study
