What Increases Your Risk

Even after treatment that seems successful, colorectal cancer comes back (recurs) about half the time.² But this depends on the stage of the cancer before treatment. For example, if colorectal cancer is removed while it is still contained within the colon and has not spread, your risk of developing metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer is less.

When To Call a Doctor

Some people who have metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer do not have any symptoms for some time. Colorectal cancer may be discovered before symptoms appear, either on X-rays or other lab tests.

You may be seeing a doctor regularly to check for symptoms, but symptoms might start between visits. Be aware of what is normal for you, and tell your doctor about any changes right away. Be sure to let your doctor know if you feel even very small changes.

What symptoms you may have will depend on which part of your body is affected by the cancer. Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms:

• A change in bowel habits, such as bleeding from your rectum, bright red or dark blood in your stools, frequent diarrhea, constipation, a feeling that your bowel is not emptying completely, or stools that are narrow (may be no wider than a pencil)
• Pain in your belly
• Bloating or loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Constant tiredness (fatigue)
• Cough
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Bone pain

Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting is a period of time during which you and your doctor observe your symptoms or condition without giving treatment to cure your cancer. Watchful waiting may be an option if treatment may cause more harm than good and cannot cure your cancer. Remember, though, that watchful waiting does not mean your doctor won't treat your symptoms, such as pain.

Who To See

If you have been treated for colorectal cancer, doctors who can evaluate any new symptoms include:

• Gastroenterologist.
• Internist.
• Family medicine doctor.
• Colon and rectal surgeon.
• Medical oncologist.
• Radiation oncologist.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.