Some people are embarrassed to talk to their doctor about certain things. One of those embarrassing things is rectal cancer, but talking to your doctor and noticing the symptoms can save your life. Colorectal cancer is rare cancer that spreads through the rectum. It is caused by gene mutations that make healthy cells abnormal. Once these cells start growing, they go out of control and never die. These abnormal cells eventually form large tumors.

It is so rare that most symptoms go unnoticed. Here are the rectal cancer symptoms you should know.

  1. Pain in the anus
    Hemorrhoids cause tenderness and pain in the anus. Sometimes this pain can be a symptom of rectal cancer. It starts with mild pain and then turns into constant pain. If left untreated, the pain becomes unbearable, which means the cancer is spreading.
  2. Itching of the anus
    Don’t worry if you only experience itching. On the other hand, if you experience other symptoms along with itching, you should see your doctor.
  3. Rectal bleeding
    People often believe that rectal bleeding is caused by hemorrhoids. Unfortunately, frequent rectal bleeding is a symptom of rectal cancer.
  4. Discharge from the anus
    If you notice rectal discharge, it may be a sign of rectal cancer. If you develop mucus around your stool every time you go to the bathroom, see your doctor.
  5. Masses outside the anus
    If you have a lump outside of the pelvis, you need to control it. If it begins to increase, it may be a tumor. Once this lump starts to grow, you will also experience pain.

In order to prevent rectal cancer, some risk factors should be known. The main factor is that rectal sex increases the risk of developing cancer and HIV.