The colon, also known as the large intestine, is part of the digestive system. Symptoms of colon cancer can include bloody stool, abdominal pain and cramping. Treatment varies based on several factors such as stage and location of tumors within the colon. Some patients with colon cancer choose to undergo chemotherapy and radiation therapy to reduce chances that cancer will grow or return. It's important for those diagnosed to find a doctor that specializes in colorectal care; this includes gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons who treat diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The best way to detect colon cancer early is through screening tests which are done regularly by your doctor at certain intervals of time depending on your age and health history. After a colon cancer diagnosis is made, you should meet with your doctor to discuss the different colon cancer treatments available to you.
Do you know the symptoms of colon cancer?
The most common symptom of colon cancer is a change in bowel habits. Other symptoms include:
• Bleeding from your rectum or blood in your stool
• A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Nausea, vomiting, and/or a lack of appetite. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is important to consult with a doctor as soon as possible. This is because if left untreated colon cancer can be fatal. So if you think that you might have colon cancer it's best to ask for help sooner rather than later!
What are the treatments for colon cancer?
Colorectal cancers are usually treated with surgery, although they may be treated with chemotherapy. Surgery is typically a straightforward process and has a high rate of success. However, depending on where the tumor was located, surgery could cause long-term side effects such as impotence or incontinence. If you have recently been diagnosed with colon cancer it is important to speak to your doctor about all treatment options available to you so that you can choose what is best for your health.
Is there a cure for colon cancer?
Although colon cancer can be effectively managed if it is caught early enough, this does not mean that it can be cured. A person will have colon cancer for the rest of their life if it is not successfully treated, but there are steps that you can take to manage your condition. Speak with your doctor about treatment options and lifestyle changes that may help you to live a healthier life while living with colon cancer.
When should I see a doctor about colon cancer?
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, or have been experiencing some discomfort around the abdomen area, it is important to speak with your doctor as soon as possible. There are several different conditions which could be causing these symptoms so it is best to get them checked out promptly before making a misdiagnosis! A doctor can determine if you do indeed have colon cancer through a handful of tests including blood work and medical imaging scans such as CT scans and colonoscopies.
If you have been recently diagnosed with colon cancer, speak to your doctor about all treatment options available so that you can choose what is best for your health!
It's important to note that although surgery can be effective in treating colon cancer, it may cause long-term side effects such as impotence or incontinence if the tumor is not removed successfully.