subject: Understanding Colon And Pancreatic Cancer [print this page] The team of specialists at Gastroenterology and Hepatology Associates strive to improve your overall health by focusing on preventing, diagnosing and treatment conditions associated with your digestive system. This often includes colon cancer and pancreatic cancer, which are both common cancers patients experience. Through early diagnosis and proper treatment, you can potentially experience a full recovery from your cancer.
What is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (colon), the lower part of your digestive system, while rectal cancer is cancer of the last several inches of the colon. Together, these types of cancers are often referred to as colorectal cancers. Most cases of colon cancer begin as small, benign clumps of cells called adenomatous polyps. Over time, some of these polyps will become colon cancers. Polyps may be small and produce few, if any, symptoms. For this reason, doctors may recommend regular screening tests to help prevent colon cancer by identifying polyps before they become colon cancer.
Some signs and symptoms of colon cancer include:
*A change in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool
*Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
*Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain
*A feeling that your bowl doesn't empty completely
*Weakness or fatigue
*Unexplained weight loss
Many people with colon cancer experience no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. When symptoms appear, they will most likely vary, depending on the cancer's size and location in your large intestine. If you notice any of these symptoms of colon cancer, make an appointment with your doctor immediately.
What is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer begins in the tissues of your pancreas, which is an organ in your abdomen that lies horizontally behind the lower part of your stomach. Your pancreas secretes enzymes that aid in digestion and hormones that help regulate the metabolism of sugars. Pancreatic cancer is often a poor prognosis because even when diagnosed early, it can spread quickly and is seldom detected in its early stages, which is a major reason why it is a leading cause of cancer deaths. Signs and symptoms may not appear until it is in advanced stages and surgical removal isn't possible.
Some signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer include:
*Upper abdominal pain that may radiate to your back
*Yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes (jaundice)
*Loss of appetite
*Weight loss
*Depression
*Blood clots
Visit your doctor if you experience unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, jaundice, or other signs and symptoms that bother you. Many diseases and conditions other than cancer may cause similar signs and symptoms, so your doctor may check for these conditions as well as for pancreatic cancer.
By visiting your gastroenterologist in Hendersonville, you can take the next step toward better health with proper diagnosis and treatment of colon and pancreatic cancer. Remember, early diagnosis is always beneficial in treatment, so seek care now.
