Health experts warn of silent symptoms for cancer and kidney disease

Medical experts are warning of the dangers of ignoring subtle physical changes that may indicate serious underlying conditions, such as colorectal cancer and kidney decline.

In Taiwan, doctors note that colorectal cancer often presents with few early symptoms. A case involving a man in his 50s highlighted how occasional constipation can mask stage three colorectal cancer, which was only discovered after sudden, severe abdominal pain indicated a bowel obstruction. Physicians emphasize that changes in bowel habits lasting over two weeks, such as thinner stools, blood in the stool, or unexplained weight loss, require immediate medical attention. Early detection through polyp removal and regular screenings is critical.

Similarly, specialists in kidney health warn that renal function decline can occur without obvious pain or swelling. Common indicators of kidney aging or damage include increased abdominal fat, frequent nighttime urination, rising blood pressure, and foamy urine (indicating proteinuria). Because early-stage chronic kidney disease is often asymptomatic, medical professionals recommend regular blood and urine tests to monitor creatinine and albumin levels to prevent progression to kidney failure.