Colon cancer can cause stool changes like blood, loose stools, narrow “pencil” stools, or increased frequency. Other symptoms include abdominal pain, fatigue, and a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying (tenesmus).As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include alternating constipation and diarrhea,
rectal bleeding, bloating, and severe anemia. Advanced stages can lead to dark, tar-like stool (melena), weight loss, nausea, and bowel obstruction.While not all changes indicate cancer, persistent symptoms should be checked by a doctor. Early detection greatly improves treatment success.