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Colorectal cancer, otherwise called colon cancer or rectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the colon and rectum (part of the large intestine). The colon and rectum are responsible for removing water and nutrients from the waste products that pass through the intestine and storing and eliminating these waste products.
Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent type of cancer in men. It can affect people of any age, but the risk increases with age, and most cases occur in people over 50. Cancer begins when healthy cells in the colon or rectum develop mutations in their DNA. These mutations allow the cells to grow and divide out of control, forming a tumor. If the tumor is not detected and treated, it can spread to other parts of the body through the lymph nodes or bloodstream.
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Patients with colorectal cancer often show no early symptoms. This is one reason why it is so important to get screened for colorectal cancer, starting at age 50 for most people. However, if you do experience any of the symptoms mentioned below, you must talk to a doctor at a gastro hospital in Bangalore for a proper diagnosis.
Common signs and symptoms associated with colorectal cancer are:
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Abnormal bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of the stool.
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Rectal bleeding or stools containing blood.
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Persistent abdominal discomforts, such as cramps, gas, or pain.
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A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely.
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Weakness or fatigue
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Unexplained weight loss.
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Mucus in the stool.
Risk Factors associated with Colorectal Cancer
Various factors may be associated with your risk factors of developing colorectal cancer. Some of the risk factors for colorectal cancer include age (> 50 years), family history or personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps, lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, and a diet high in red and/or processed meat.
Other potential causes of colorectal cancer that may increase your risk include alcohol consumption, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and certain inherited gene mutations.
Treating Colorectal Cancer
In colorectal cancer, the type of treatment used depends on the stage and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health.
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Surgery is the most common form of treatment for colorectal cancer and is used to remove the cancerous tissue and any nearby lymph nodes. Depending on the cancer stage, the surgeon may remove part of the rectum, part of the colon, or the entire colon and rectum. Colectomy is carried out to remove all or part of the colon. If only part of the colon needs to be removed, the procedure is called hemicolectomy, a partial colectomy, or segmental resection.
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Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. It is usually given before or after surgery to help reduce the risk of recurrence or stop the spread of cancerous cells. Visit our gastro ho
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Radiation therapy kills cancer cells by using high-energy X-rays. It can be used in combination with surgery to help reduce the risk of recurrence or spread of cancer.
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Laparoscopy for colorectal cancer: Laparoscopy for colorectal cancer is safe and helps patients recover faster. Most surgeries for colorectal cancer are done with laparoscopy to allow early recovery.
Other treatments for colorectal cancer include biological therapy, which uses natural substances to help the immune system fight cancer, and targeted therapy to target specific genes, proteins, or tissues that influence the growth and spread of cancer.
Please book an appointment with a Consultant – Gastroenterologist & Oncologist to discuss all of your symptoms and viable treatment options.
FAQs:
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Is Colorectal Cancer curable?
Colorectal cancer can be treated successfully in most cases. The outlook for colorectal cancer depends on a variety of factors, including the stage (extent) of the cancer, the location of the tumor, the person's age, and overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and/or targeted therapy. Consult with a Gastrointestinal Surgeon in Millers Road to have the best treatment.
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What happens in end-stage Colon Cancer?
End-stage colon cancer has spread to other organs, such as the liver, lungs, or lymph nodes. The individual may experience frequent episodes of abdominal pain, increased sleep, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, drowsiness, unresponsiveness, weight loss, and swelling in the abdomen.
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What is the main symptom of Colorectal Cancer?
The main symptom of colorectal cancer is persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, and/or a change in the consistency of stool that lasts for more than a few days. Other symptoms may include blood in the stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
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