Colon cancer i.e. Colorectal cancer is one of the fastest growing cancers in the world. Generally people associate its symptoms with digestive signs like stomach ache, change in bowel habits and bleeding. However, experts say that sometimes this disease can show its initial signs even on the largest organ of the body i.e. the skin.

If changes like rashes, lumps, discoloration or wounds are visible on the skin, then ignoring them can prove costly. In such a situation, let us tell you today which signs visible on the skin point towards colon cancer and how costly it can be to ignore them.

How does colon cancer affect the skin?

Skin often shows many problems going on inside the body from outside. Skin changes in colon cancer can be caused by a number of factors, including the spread of cancer cells, the body’s immune response, or the effects of cancer treatments. These changes can appear on the torso, arms or legs of the body and sometimes appear as mild redness and sometimes as a hard lump or open wound. Experts believe that people should pay more attention to these signs if there is a history of colon cancer in the family or if there are lifestyle related risks. Recognizing the symptoms in time makes treatment easier.

Most common skin symptoms associated with colon cancer

• Cutaneous nodules- Sometimes colon cancer cells spread on the skin and form hard lumps. It can vary in size and can sometimes be painful. This sign indicates that the cancer is spreading beyond its original location.

• Erythema and inflammatory rashes- Erythema i.e. redness and swelling on the skin can be seen in colon cancer due to the body’s immune response. These patches may feel slightly raised, warm, or itchy and may persist for a long time even though they look like a normal rash.

• Skin ulcer- In some people, such wounds may appear on the skin which do not heal easily. This may be a result of cancerous processes going on in the body. At the same time, their gradual increase or continuous persistence can also be a warning.

• Hyperpigmentation and discoloration- In some cases the skin color may become darker. This could be the effect of metabolic changes in the body or cancer treatments. These changes gradually start appearing on the torso, hands or face.

• Acne-like rashes or persistent rashes- Some people may develop an acne-like rash or widespread rash that does not resolve with normal skincare. This can also point towards cancer.

Possible causes of colon cancer that affect the skin

• Spread of cancer cells to the skin- Many times cancer reaches the skin through the blood or lymph system and forms lumps there. This condition is rare but serious.

• Side effects of cancer treatment- Chemotherapy or targeted therapy can cause symptoms like dryness, redness, rash or acne in the skin.

• Immune reaction and paraneoplastic syndrome- Cancer alters the body’s immune function, which can cause obesity, red patches or unusual rashes to appear on the skin. These symptoms sometimes appear even before digestive symptoms.

• Metabolism and hormonal changes- Cancer affects the chemical balance of the body, which can change the color and texture of the skin.

Read this also- Xeroderma Pigmentosum: Due to which disease the body functions only in sunlight, what is the reason for this problem?

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.