Colon Rectal Cancer Symptoms

Colon Rectal Cancer Symptoms

The colon is an important organ in the digestive tract and any malfunction of the colon can lead to serious complications. The colon helps the body absorb nutrients, water and minerals and also eliminates waste from the body in the form of stools. A majority of the large intestine consists of the colon, while the last six inches are the anal canal and the rectum. Colon cancer is a disease characterized by abnormal cell growth on the colon lining and is a common form of cancer that affects people over 50. However, this does not rule out its occurrence in any age group.

Symptoms of colorectal cancer

Colon rectal cancer symptoms vary according to the location of the cancer, while the condition is often asymptomatic in its early stages. When diagnosed in time this type of cancer is treatable especially in its early stages. It is important to understand colon rectal cancer symptoms in order to seek timely and appropriate treatment so that you can take care of your health over the long term. Individuals over 50 years require regular screening since there may be few or no symptoms at all in the beginning. Colon rectal cancer symptoms are of two types namely, local and systemic. The common local symptoms include constipation, diarrhea, significant change in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, bright or dark red stools and alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation. It is essential to contact your physician if you experience any of these symptoms for two weeks or more.

Systemic Colon Rectal Cancer Symptoms

Colon rectal cancer symptoms that affect your entire body are known as systemic symptoms, which include unintentional weight loss, fatigue, vomiting, anemia and jaundice. Those with anemia have a low red blood cell count and appear pale and with a general feeling of lethargy. Jaundice causes a yellow color to the skin and the whites of the eyes and any sign of jaundice must be reported to your doctor. Your doctor will arrange to conduct specific tests in order to perform a diagnosis of your condition. There is no reason to worry about the tests; since your doctor will help you get ready for any procedures. You could get ready for the tests with a colon cleansing in order to ensure a good screening. Screening includes stool samples, blood tests and rectal examination which may require the insertion of a scope into the rectum. A biopsy may be taken for further examination of the colon’s tissue. Ultrasound, CT scan or X-rays may be required if colon rectal cancer is confirmed in order to assess the extent of the spread of the disease.

How Is Colorectal Cancer Treated?

Once colon rectal cancer symptoms have been confirmed, the next step that your doctor will take is to determine the best course of treatment. This may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and monoclonal antibody therapy as a single course of treatment or a combination. Colorectal cancer requires coordination between physicians, surgeons, nurses and dieticians in order to receive adequate treatment. While conventional forms of treatment are used to arrest the growth of cancer cells, there are several natural remedies to reduce the side effects of these treatments. Colonic irrigation and the use of colon cleansing products can help towards maintaining a healthy colon.