Introduction
It’s no secret that colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States. In fact, it’s the third most common cancer in both men and women. While colon cancer and rectal cancer are two different types of colorectal cancer, they share many similarities. There are a few things you should know about colorectal cancer symptoms and signs, so that you can be on the lookout for them. Here are 5 common ones to be aware of:
What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer, is a cancer that affects the colon and rectum. The colon is the large intestine, while the rectum is the last part of the large intestine before it empties into the anus.
The most common symptom of colorectal cancer is bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool. Other symptoms may include:
-Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
-A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so
-Stools that are narrower than usual
-Persistent abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping
-Weight loss without trying to lose weight
-Fatigue
How is colorectal cancer diagnosed?
There are a few different ways that colorectal cancer can be diagnosed. The first is through a colonoscopy, which is when a doctor inserts a small, flexible camera into the rectum in order to get a close look at the large intestine. A biopsy can also be taken during a colonoscopy, which is when a small sample of tissue is removed from the intestine and sent to a lab for testing.
Another way to colorectal cancer treatment is through a sigmoidoscopy, which is similar to a colonoscopy but only looks at the lower part of the large intestine. Again, a biopsy can also be taken during this procedure.
A CT scan may also be ordered to check for tumors or enlarged lymph nodes in the abdomen. This scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of the inside of the body.
Finally, blood tests may also be used to diagnose colorectal cancer. These tests look for certain substances that may be released into the bloodstream by cancerous tumors
How is colorectal cancer treated?
There are a number of different ways that colorectal cancer can be treated, depending on the stage of the disease and the individual patient’s situation. In general, treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for colorectal cancer, and may be followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy. The type of surgery performed will depend on the location and size of the tumor, as well as whether or not the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It is typically used after surgery to remove any remaining cancer cells, but can also be used as a primary treatment for some early-stage cancers.
Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It is usually given after surgery to help reduce the risk of recurrence, but may also be used as a primary treatment for some advanced-stage cancers. It could be performed with the help of a variety of medications from herbal medicines to modern way of medication which has proven effective effects on the body. The average cost of cancer treatment in India can depend on the type of treatment and where it’s administered.
Colorectal cancer prevention
There are a few things you can do to help prevent colorectal cancer, or catch it early. First, get screened. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends all adults ages 50 to 75 get screened for colorectal cancer with either a colonoscopy or high-sensitivity fecal occult blood test every 10 years, or a sigmoidoscopy every five years.
Second, make healthy lifestyle choices. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed meats and red meats. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Maintain a healthy weight and get regular exercise. And don’t smoke tobacco products.
Third, know your family history and get genetic counseling if necessary. If you have close relatives who’ve had colorectal cancer or polyps, you may be at increased risk and need to start screenings earlier or get them more often than the general population. Talk to your doctor about your risks and what’s right for you.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of colorectal cancer, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so don’t delay in getting checked out. Remember, if you’re feeling unsure about something, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and get it checked out.
Table of Contents
