Symptom 4: Weakness or Fatigue
There’s an unspoken rhythm to our daily lives. The peaks and troughs of energy, the balance between rest and activity, have a familiar pattern. So, when persistent fatigue sets in, it feels as if someone’s fiddled with the tempo. Colorectal cancer has an insidious way of sapping one’s strength. This isn’t just about being tired after a long day. It’s about waking up exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep.
One of the primary culprits behind this fatigue is anemia. The constant, though often unnoticed, bleeding from the tumor reduces the number of red blood cells. These cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to various parts of the body. When their number dwindles, oxygen supply takes a hit, leading to that overwhelming sensation of fatigue. The heart tries to compensate by pumping harder, but this only exacerbates the exhaustion.
Apart from the pronounced fatigue, other subtle signs might go unnoticed. There might be occasional dizziness, especially when standing up suddenly. Paleness, especially in the face and hands, is another indicator of the reduced red blood cell count. And then there’s the shortness of breath. A simple activity, like walking a short distance or even talking continuously, might lead to panting or a need to pause and catch one’s breath.
Physical exhaustion is just one aspect. There’s an emotional and psychological toll too. The body’s constant fight against the disease, coupled with the reduced energy levels, can lead to mood swings, irritability, and even bouts of depression. This emotional fatigue can make it challenging to communicate with loved ones, further intensifying feelings of isolation. (4)
