Colon Rectal Cancer

Colon rectal Cancer

One of the most common types of cancer is colon rectal cancer, which is often referred to as colon cancer or colorectal cancer. Cancerous cells or malignant polyps grow along the colon, rectum and the appendix. These polyps are similar in shape to mushrooms that are initially benign but have the potential to turn malignant. It is advisable to keep a close watch for any sign or symptoms of colon rectal cancer.

Causes of Colon Rectal Cancer

The risk of this type of cancer increases with age, so those over 50 years ought to have regular checkups. If you follow a high-fat diet, have a family history of colorectal cancer or have had Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, it is prudent to have regular checkups. Polyps that grow inside the colon and rectum can turn cancerous; therefore, make sure to have regular tests if the polyps have not been removed.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the case. If you experience blood in your stool, abdominal discomfort and a significant change in bowel habits, these may be the first signs of colon rectal cancer, which can be confirmed or ruled out through a colonoscopy. Under no circumstances, are these symptoms to be ignored and suppressed through over the counter drugs. In the early stages, some individuals do not experience any symptoms at all. Most symptoms are similar to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease, making it difficult to diagnose at the very outset. Diarrhea and severe constipation are also common symptoms that must be brought to the attention of your physician in order to get a correct diagnosis. If you have been experiencing rectal bleeding without suffering from Crohn’s disease or haemorrhoids, then you must seek medical help immediately.

Treatment

Colon rectal cancer is best treated when diagnosed in the early stages. Early detection may not be easy, since colon cancer is a complicated disease. The cancer may be confined to a specific area or may spread to other organs of the body, which is known as metastatic cancer. Treatment varies according to the stage of the cancer. Surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are the common types of treatment for colon rectal cancer. Depending on the stage, two or more types of treatment may be administered at the same time. Colon surgery or coloctemy or a rectal surgery is usually recommended during the early stages. Polyps can be removed in the early stages with the help of a colonoscope.

Side effects of treatment

The side effects of colorectal surgery vary according to the extent of surgery. Some people experience pain that can be controlled with medicines, while other experience bleeding and blood clot in the legs. Sometimes two sections of the colon that are joined during surgery may leak and cause an infection.

There are also natural treatments for colon rectal cancer that alleviate the symptoms and side effects caused by conventional drugs and treatment. Keeping the colon healthy is essential to maintain the right chemical balance, which can be achieved through colonic irrigation or the use of colon cleansing products. However, make sure these products contain natural ingredients before you go ahead and purchase them.