subject: Symptoms of Colon Cancer [print this page] The lower part of your digestive system is called the large intestine or the colon. When cancer occurs in this part of the digestive system it is called colon cancer. The last several inches of the colon is referred to as the rectum and when cancer occurs in this part, it is referred to as rectal cancer. Both these cancers are usually referred together as colorectal cancer. Let's have a look at the causes and risk factors of colorectal cancer before going onto the symptoms and treatment.
Causes and risk factors of colorectal cancer
The exact causes of colon cancer are not known. However, there are certain factors that increase your risk of developing this disease. Following are some of the factors that increase your risk of getting colorectal cancer:
Most colon cancers begin as polyps on the inside lining of the colon. These are precancerous growths in the colon common after the age of 50. If not removed, they can become cancerous.
Colon cancer is more likely in people above the age of fifty.
A family history of this cancer increases your risk of getting this disease.
There are certain inherited gene mutations that increase the risk of colon cancer and these are passed through families.
Conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease that cause inflammation of the colon increase the risk of cancer.
People consuming a high-fat diet which is low in calcium, folate, and fiber are at an increased risk of getting this disease.
Smoking increases the risk of developing polyps and colorectal cancer.
Symptoms of colon cancer
Many people with colon cancer may not experience any symptoms in early stages of the disease. However, following symptoms may be experienced once the cancer advances:
Change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
Feeling that you have not been able to empty your bowel completely
Bleeding from the rectum or blood in stool
Stools that are narrower than usual
Weight loss without any obvious reasons
Cramps, pains, or gas
Feeling bloated or full
Constant fatigue
Nausea or vomiting
Diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer
If your doctor suspects colon cancer, he/she may conduct some tests for the diagnosis of the disease. These include blood tests, colonoscopy (which uses a long tube with a camera) to examine the inside of your colon, a barium enema to evaluate your colon with an X-ray, and a CT scan. Certain tests and procedures may also be used to see the stage of the cancer.
Treatment usually depends on the stage of colon cancer. If the cancer is at an early stage and confined to a small part of the colon, it can be removed during a colonoscopy. A colectomy may be required to remove the part of colon that has the cancer. During an advanced stage of the cancer, a surgery may be done to remove certain blockages in the colon for relief in the symptoms. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted drug therapy are also treatment options for this cancer.
Regular screening for cancer, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are the best ways to prevent colon cancer. However, if you do experience any of the above symptoms, make sure to consult your doctor immediately.
