By Admin 
Due to today’s fast-paced life, wrong eating habits, stress and lack of physical activity, the problem of constipation has become very common. Millions of people around the world are struggling with this problem every day. Occasional constipation is common and people generally ignore it. But when this problem persists for a long time, it can become a cause for concern. Often people fear that their long-standing constipation might be a sign of intestinal or colon cancer. In most cases, the cause of constipation is not cancer, but it is a problem related to our lifestyle and eating habits. But in some special situations, constipation can also be a sign of some serious disease. In such a situation, let us tell you today when the problem of constipation turns into cancer and when one should be careful about it.
What is constipation?
Constipation means when bowel movements are not regular, stools are very hard, one has to strain during bowel movements and defecation is less than 2-3 times a week. When this problem persists for 3 weeks or more, it is called long-term or chronic constipation. Its common symptoms are defecation 2 or less times a week, stool being very hard or dry, not emptying the stomach completely even after straining and heaviness or gas in the stomach. In most cases, constipation is caused by a diet low in fiber, not drinking enough water, lack of physical activity, sitting for long periods of time, side effects of some medications, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
When does constipation become cancer?
In most cases, constipation does not turn into cancer. But in certain situations, prolonged constipation can be a sign of cancer. Constipation is considered dangerous when it persists for more than 3 weeks, there is a sudden change in the habit of defecation, there is blood in the stool or the stool is black, there is weight loss without any reason. Feeling constantly tired, persistent pain, heaviness or lump in the stomach, constipation and diarrhea occurring alternately. In such cases, colon cancer screening becomes necessary. As colon cancer grows, it narrows the intestinal tract, preventing stool from moving through. Due to which there is constant constipation, pain and bleeding problems, but cancer causes constipation only after it grows a lot. Cancer causes constipation only when the tumor becomes large enough and partially blocks the intestinal tract, that is, constipation only in the beginning is not usually a sign of cancer.
When should one be wary of this?
1. Constipation persists for more than 3 weeks. It may not be cured even by changing diet, drinking water or home remedies.
2. If blood is visible in the stool, red blood or black colored stool, it can be a sign of an internal problem.
3. There is persistent or severe pain in the stomach. Especially if the pain persists every day. Feeling of heaviness or lump in the stomach.
4. Started losing weight without any reason. Weight loss without changing diet is a danger sign.
5. Feeling very tired or weak. Fatigue does not go away even after rest.
6. The habit of defecation suddenly changes. Earlier everything was fine, now suddenly constipation started or constipation and diarrhea are alternating again and again.
7. Persistent constipation for the first time after the age of 45–50 years. New digestive problems should not be ignored at this age.
Also read: Is it necessary for health to take bath daily in winter? Know the opinion of experts
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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