Colon Cancer Symptoms
In the following information, we will tell you how to identify the colon cancer signs. Learn more about the common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Keep reading to learn some helpful information regarding cancer of colon and what you need to know about complications of this condition and treatment options.
The term colon cancer refers to a clustering or a mass of cancerous cells (adenomatous polyps), which forms a tumor that is located on the large intestine (colon). Rectal cancer is similar to this form; however, rectal is cancer that is located in the lower portion of the colon. Moreover, because they are so similar, these two cancers are commonly linked and referred to as colorectal cancers. Regular screenings are recommended to prevent polyps from becoming cancerous.
The colon cancer symptoms can appear in several different forms including diarrhea and constipation lasting for more than two weeks, blood in stool or rectal bleeding, cramps, gas, pain in the abdomen, bowels never feeling completely empty, weakness, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms vary depending upon the colon cancer stage and typically, symptoms do not appear until the later stages of the disease. If you notice blood in the stool or a change in bowel movements, schedule an appointment with the doctor. Generally, doctors recommend regular colon cancer screenings to begin at age 50, however, for those who have a family history of colon cancer or are facing other risk factors, the doctor may want to perform screening more often.
The exact cause of colon cancer is unknown, however, what we do know about the disease is that it occurs when the cells are not growing, dividing, and dying properly and this causes overgrowth, resulting in polyps or a growth. In addition, sometimes, after time has passed these improperly functioning cells become cancerous.
Treatment methods for colon cancer may vary depending upon the stage of the disease. The most common colon cancer treatment methods include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. In the early stages, the cancerous polyps may be removed during a colonoscopy or laparoscopic surgery may be used for larger polyps. If the cancer has reached the invasive stage, a colectomy may be recommended along with the removal of the lymph nodes in the area to see if the cancer has spread. In the invasive stage, a permanent or temporary colostomy may be used to cure the cancer. If the cancer is in the advanced stages, you may need an operation to remove blockage (palliative surgery), which relieves the symptoms.
Watch for the colon cancer signs mentioned in this article and if you notice any of these symptoms, contact a doctor right away.