Gastrointestinal Disease: Signs & Symptoms
Read more about common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders.
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UT Physicians
Since many gastrointestinal conditions overlap, an expert can help you determine what the cause and condition are. If you experience the following symptoms or have a family history of cancer, it is recommended to see a colon and rectal doctor to get evaluated.

Abdominal pain or cramping

Bloating

Change in bowel habits

Constipation

Diarrhea

Incomplete bowel movements

Narrow stools

Rectal bleeding or bloody stools

Unexplained weight loss

Weakness or fatigue

Higher risk factors doesn’t guarantee you will get cancer but it does increase the likelihood of getting cancer. When it comes to your risk, there are some factors you can change but some that you cannot. Education is the key to taking a proactive stance regarding your health and getting preventative/early screenings.

Colorectal cancer risk can increase based on factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, unbalanced diets, age, race, smoking and if you have a family history of cancer.

The risk for anal cancer can increase if you have conditions or diseases such as HIV infections, lowered immunity, smoking, gender, race, human papillomavirus (HPV) and sexual activity.

At early stages, colorectal and anal cancer patients often do not experience symptoms. If you experience the following symptoms, it is recommended to see a doctor. While it may not be related to colorectal or anal cancer directly, it may be tied to other conditions.

Symptoms of colorectal cancer include:

Change in bowel habits

Unexplained weight loss

Rectal bleeding or bloody stools

Weakness or fatigue

Abdominal pain or cramping

Incomplete bowel movements

Symptoms of anal cancer include:

Rectal bleeding or itching

Lump or mass at the anal opening

Pain at the anal area

Narrow stools

Changes in bowel movements

Abnormal discharge from the anus

Swollen lymph nodes in the anal or groin areas