Colon Cancer, How Do You Know You Have It

Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in adults, with about 135,000 new cases each year. Many common symptoms are bloody diarrhea or stool and abdominal pain that may persist for weeks before going away again. It can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to other diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Colon cancer also has a high mortality rate if it is not detected early on, making colonoscopy screening important for all adults starting at age 50. Colonoscopy examination typically includes taking samples from the lining of the large intestine and checking them under a microscope for abnormal cells, which could indicate cancer.

Colorectal surgeons can remove polyps or growths found during a colonoscopy that may turn out to be cancerous. If it is caught early, it can often be treated successfully with surgery.

What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer is a form of cancer that affects the colon. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The good news is that it can be treated if it is caught early.

Symptoms of colon cancer include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, and abdominal pain. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including family history, diet, and lifestyle choices.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. Colon cancer can be treated successfully if it is caught early. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

What causes colon cancer?

There is no one cause of colon cancer. However, some factors may increase your risk of developing the disease. These include:

– Age: Colon cancer is more common in older adults.

– Personal history: You are at a higher risk if you have had cancer before.

– Family history: If you have a relative who has had cancer, you are more likely to develop it too.

– Smoking: Smoking increases your risk of colon cancer.

– Obesity: People who are obese are more likely to develop cancer.

– Diet: A diet high in processed meats and red meat can increase your risk of colon cancer.

– Lack of exercise: Exercise can reduce your risk of colon cancer.

What are the symptoms of colon cancer?

Colon cancer can have various symptoms, the most common of which is bleeding from the rectum. Rectal bleeding can signify many things, including hemorrhoids, but it’s essential to get it checked out by a doctor if you’re experiencing it regularly. Other symptoms of colon cancer can include changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), feeling bloated or full after eating only a small amount, and weight loss. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor for a check-up.

What are the stages of colon cancer?

Colon cancer has four stages, which are determined by the size and location of the tumor and the extent of the cancer cells in the lymph nodes. The stages are…

Stage 1- It is the earliest stage. In this stage, the cancer is found in the colon’s innermost lining. The cancer cells have not spread to the outer layer of the colon or to other parts of the body. Symptoms of stage 1 may include rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits (usually diarrhea), and abdominal pain.

Stage 2 – It is when the cancer has spread to the outer layer of the colon. The cancer cells may have also spread to nearby lymph nodes. Symptoms of stage 2 colon cancer may include bloody stool, weight loss, and fatigue.

Stage 3 – It is when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs. Symptoms of stage 3 colon cancer may include abdominal swelling, feeling full quickly after eating and coughing up blood.

Stage 4 – It is the most advanced stage. In this stage, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs. The cancer cells may also have spread to the bone. Symptoms of stage 4 colon cancer may include pain in the abdomen or bones, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

If colon cancer is diagnosed in its early stages, it may be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.

What are colon cancer treatments?

There are a variety of colon cancer treatments available, depending on the stage of the cancer and other individual factors. Treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.

Surgery is often the primary treatment for colon cancer. This may involve removing the cancerous colon tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue. Surgery may also be used to treat metastatic colon cancer or cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It may be used as adjuvant therapy or treatment given in addition to surgery to help kill any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy may also be used as palliative therapy to relieve symptoms caused by cancer.

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used as adjuvant therapy or treatment given in addition to surgery to help kill any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy may also be used as palliative therapy to relieve symptoms caused by cancer.

Targeted therapy uses drugs that attack specific features of cancer cells. It is often used as adjuvant therapy or treatment given in addition to surgery to help kill any remaining cancer cells.

Is there a cure for colon cancer?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the cure for colon cancer may vary depending on the individual case. However, there are a number of treatments available for colon cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. In some cases, colon cancer may be cured completely with treatment. However, if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, it may become more difficult to cure.

It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the common symptoms of colon cancer, such as abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, and blood in the stool. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for increasing the chances of a cure.

The colon cancer stage at which you are diagnosed, and the colon cancer treatment that is being recommended to you can vary greatly. It’s important to know what symptoms may look like so that if you experience any of these, a doctor could be contacted for diagnosis as soon as possible.

If left untreated, colon cancer can lead to death in some cases – this is why it’s critical for people who have been diagnosed with colon or rectal cancers to receive proper care right away. Colon cancer treatments often depend on the severity of your condition but commonly involve surgery and chemotherapy.