Colorectal Cancer
All You Need to Know About Colorectal Cancer
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
The colon is a part of the large intestine, and the rectum is the passage connecting the colon to the anus. Colorectal cancer is a disease where cells in the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably.
What Are the Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?
- Colorectal cancer may not present with clear symptoms immediately. Polyps or early–stagecolorectal cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. Therefore, individuals at higher riskneed to undergo regular screening for colorectal cancer. Symptoms may include:.
- Diarrhea or constipation.
- A feeling of fullness in the bowel.
- Blood in the stool.
- Stool that is narrower than usual.
- Frequent gas pains or cramps, or a feeling of fullness and bloating.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Fatigue andtiredness..
- Nausea or vomiting..
Anemia.
What Causes Colorectal Cancer?
- There is no exact cause of colorectal cancer, but certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing it, such as:
- Aging..
- Inflammatory bowel diseases, like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
- A personal or family history of colorectal cancer, or a personal history of specific polyps (known asadenomas or polyps). These are abnormal growths in the lining of the colon and rectum. Mostare non-cancerous, but some may develop into cancer over time. Removal can help prevent colorectal cancer.
- Genetic syndromes, such as familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome.
- Lack of physical activity.
- A diet low in fiber and highin fat, or high in processed meats..
- Overweight and obesity.
- Alcohol consumption.
Smoking.
How Is Colorectal Cancer Diagnosed?:
- The doctor will take a medical history and conduct a physical examination. They may also request additional procedures as needed, such as:
- Stool sample testingFlexible Sigmoidoscopy):once a year.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A procedure used to examine the rectum and lower part of the colon. It can detect abnormal or irritated tissues. It is done every 5 years, or every 10 years if combined with annual stool sample testing.
- Colonoscopy: Performed using a colonoscope to look inside the rectum and (Colonoscopycolon. It can show irritated tissues. It is done every10 years (for people without increased risk of colorectal cancer).
- Virtual Colonoscopy (CT scan): Uses X-rays and a computer to produce images of theCT scan) rectum and colon. It can show ulcerations. It is done every 5 years.
What Are the Treatment Options for Colorectal Cancer?
- Surgery:
- The primary treatment for colorectal cancer. The goal is to remove as much cancerous tissue and nearby lymph nodes as possible.
- Polypectomy: Polyps are often removed during a colonoscopy.
- Local Excision: If cancer is diagnosed on the inner surface of the rectum and hasn’t spread beyond its wall, the cancer and a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue are removed.
- Total Rectal Resection: If cancer has spread beyond the rectal wall, theaffected part of the rectum and nearby healthy tissue are removed.
- Removal of Nearby Organs: If the cancer has spread to organs close to the rectum.
- Radiation Therapy:
- A cancer treatment using high-energy X-rays or other radiation to destroy cancer cells and prevent their growth. There are two types:
- External Radiation Therapy: Uses a machine to direct high-energy radiation waves at the cancer-affected area of the body, killing cancer cells.
Internal Radiation Therapy: Involves placing radioactive material directly in the cancerous area.
Chemotherapy:
- A cancer treatment using drugs to stop cancer cell growth, either by killing the cells or preventing them from dividing and spreading. It can be administered orally, intravenously, or by injection into the spinal fluid or directly into the affected organ.
- How Can Colorectal Cancer Be Prevented?
- There is no sure way to prevent colorectal cancer entirely, but some tips can reduce the risk:
- Regular screening for colorectal cancer in those at higher risk is one of the most effective ways to lower the risk.
- Maintain physical activity.
- Keep a healthy weight.
- Follow a healthy diet with plentyof fresh vegetables and fruits.
Limit red meat and avoid processed meats entirely.
- Reduce alcohol intake.
- Quit smoking. For more details, refer to the smoking cessation guide.
- What Are the Complications of Colorectal Cancer?
- Possiblecomplicationsaftersurgery:
- Infection.
- Difficulty eating or drinking.
Constipation, diarrhea, and other bowel problems.
- Pain, swelling, or leakage from the wound or stoma.
- Fecal leakage.
- In some cases, bowel cancer can recur in the intestines or anywhere else in the body, such as the liver or lungs.
- Possible side effects of radiation therapy:.
- Fatigue.
- Nausea and loss of appetite.
Diarrhea.
- Burning or irritation of the skinaround the rectum and pelvis.
- A burning sensation when urinating. These side effects gradually disappear once the treatment ends.
- Possible side effects of chemotherapy:
- Fatigue.
- Diarrhea.
- Mouth sores.
- Hair loss, though hair loss is uncommon in colorectal cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
- Feeling numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands, feet, and neck.
Weak immune system.
Fertility problems in men and women. These side effects typically subside once the treatment is completed.
When Should You See a Doctor?
See a doctor if symptoms of colorectal cancer last for more than three weeks. If you have:
- Blood in the stool.
- Unexplained changes in bowel habits.
- Fatigue and abdominal pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have severe constipation and fatigue; does this mean I have colon cancer?
No, many causes of constipation exist, most of which can be treated with healthy habits and medications. However, it is essential to consult a doctor to confirm your medical history, undergo a physical examination, and conduct any necessary tests.
Does blood in the stool mean I have colon cancer?
No, many causes for blood in the stool exist, like hemorrhoids, most of which canbe treated with healthy habits and medications. However, it is essential to consult a doctorto confirm your medical history, undergo a physical examination, and conduct any necessary tests.
