A Texas single mother, Radwah Oda, has courageously shared her journey with stage four colon cancer to raise awareness about the warning signs she initially overlooked. Balancing motherhood, a full-time job, and her cancer battle, Radwah’s story has resonated with millions after her TikTok video went viral, garnering over 2.3 million views. Through her platform, she urges others to take their health seriously and not ignore subtle symptoms that could signal serious conditions like colon cancer.
### **Overlooked Symptoms: A Wake-Up Call**
Radwah’s experience highlights several symptoms she dismissed, which are often overlooked but can be critical red flags for colon cancer. Here’s what she shared:
#### **1. Changes in Stool**
One of the first signs Radwah noticed was a change in her bowel habits. Her stool became pencil-thin, which she initially attributed to mild constipation. She also observed small amounts of blood in her stool, which she mistakenly thought was due to hemorrhoids—a common misconception. Additionally, she never felt her bowels were fully empty after using the restroom. "I would keep pushing and pushing, but nothing would come out,” she explained.
#### **2. Unexplained Abdominal Pain**
Radwah experienced persistent pain below her right breast, which she dismissed as an ill-fitting bra. However, this pain was actually a sign that the cancer had spread to her liver. Her story underscores the importance of paying attention to unusual or persistent pain, as it could indicate a more serious underlying condition.
#### **3. Chronic Fatigue**
Despite getting adequate rest, Radwah struggled with constant exhaustion, often needing multiple naps throughout the day. Chronic fatigue is a common symptom of colon cancer, as the disease drains the body’s resources. "I would still need to take naps a few times a day, and nothing really helped,” she recalled.
#### **4. Other Warning Signs**
In another video, Radwah shared additional symptoms she experienced before her diagnosis, including unexplained weight loss, a poor appetite, and severe stomach pain. At the time, she brushed these off as a "really bad stomach bug.” Her story serves as a reminder that persistent, unexplained changes in the body should never be ignored.
### **Advocating for Early Detection**
Radwah’s message is clear: "If you have any of these symptoms, please don’t be concerned, but go see a doctor.” Her story has inspired countless viewers to take their health more seriously, especially younger individuals who often dismiss symptoms or attribute them to less serious causes.
### **Common Symptoms of Colon Cancer**
The American Cancer Society emphasizes that colon cancer symptoms can develop gradually, making them easy to overlook. Key warning signs include:
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool).
- Blood in stool or rectal bleeding.
- Persistent abdominal pain or cramping.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Weakness or fatigue.
### **Colon Cancer in Younger Adults**
Recent studies show a concerning rise in colorectal cancer cases among people under 50. Many younger patients mistakenly believe colon cancer only affects older adults, leading to delayed diagnoses. Persistent abdominal pain and bloody stools are among the most common early symptoms in younger individuals. The Mayo Clinic advises paying close attention to changes in bowel habits, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
### **The Importance of Listening to Your Body**
Radwah’s journey is a powerful reminder to listen to your body and seek medical attention for persistent symptoms. By sharing her story, she hopes to encourage others to act sooner rather than later, potentially saving lives through early detection and timely intervention.
### **Final Thoughts**
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor. Early detection can make a significant difference in the diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer. Radwah’s bravery in sharing her story has already made an impact, reminding us all to prioritize our health and take action when something feels off.
