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Colon Cancer Symptoms and Treatment
Colon cancer is also known as colorectal cancer, which begins in the large intestine (colon). This type of cancer typically affects older adults. However, it can affect a person at any age.
Initially, colon cancer develops as small, noncancerous tissue in the area of the large intestine. Slowly, the lumps form as polyps, which become colon cancer. Generally, polyps are small in size and show fewer or no symptoms, which makes the matter a serious concern.
Doctors recommend regular cancer screening tests to identify and treat the polyps before they develop into cancer. If colon cancer develops, there are two types of treatments available to help control it
- Numerous treatments, such as radiation therapy and surgery
- Pharmacological treatments such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy
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Get A Second OpinionSymptoms of Colon Cancer
People with colon cancer may have no symptoms in the early stages. The symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the cancer at the time it appears. However, if you experience any of these symptoms for more than a week, you must consult a doctor.
Stage-wise Colon Cancer Symptoms
Know the symptoms of colon cancer by their stages:
| Stage 1 & Stage 2 Symptoms | Stage 3 & Stage 4 Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea | Excessive fatigue |
| Constipation | Unexplained weakness |
| Blood in stool | Unintentional weight loss |
| Bleeding from rectum | Changes in the stool that last longer than a month |
| Abdominal cramps and pain | Vomiting |
| Excessive gas | Loss of appetite |
Symptoms of colon cancer are more prominent in stages 3 and 4. It can spread to other parts of the body and you may also experience the following symptoms:
- Jaundice
- Blurry vision
- Breathing difficulties
- Swelling in the hands or feet
- Chronic headaches
Consult the doctor if you experience any of these mentioned symptoms. If you have any other risk factors, such as a family history of cancer disease, the doctor may recommend a cancer screening test.
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Book an AppointmentColon Cancer Causes
- Age over 50 is a significant risk factor for colon cancer.
- A family history of colon cancer or genetic syndromes increases risk.
- Diets high in red and processed meats and low in fibre raise risk.
- A sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use are risk factors.
- Chronic inflammatory conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease elevate the risk of colon cancer.
Colon Cancer Treatment
Treatment of colon cancer depends on some factors such as the stage of the cancer, location of cancer, severity, patient health condition, other health risks, and complications.
The cancer is usually treated with surgery to remove the tissues. The following are the treatment options:
- Polypectomy
- Endoscopic resection
- Minimally invasive surgery or laparoscopic surgery
- Partial colectomy
- Lymph node removal
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted drug therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Supportive (palliative) care
Success Rate for Treatment of Colon Cancer
- In India, Colon cancer ranks as the fifth most common cancer.
- However, it is a highly treatable and often curable disease when diagnosed and treated early.
- For the treatment of colon cancer, surgery is the primary form and this can result in a colon cancer survival rate in approximately 75% of the patients.
Reduce the Risk of Colon Cancer
Know the lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of colon cancer:
- Have a Healthy Diet: Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Stay hydrated: Take enough water and fluids every day to keep your gut healthy.
- Avoid the consumption of alcohol: Consumption of alcohol can bring your health at high risk.
- Stop smoking: Get in touch with an addiction therapist who may help you quit the habit of smoking.
- Regular exercise: Try to do daily exercise for at least 30 minutes.
- Maintain a healthy weight: With a healthy diet try to maintain a healthy weight with daily exercise. If you need to lose weight, contact a dietician who can help you to achieve your weight goal.
Conclusion
Colorectal cancer, also called colon cancer, begins as non-threatening polyps in the colon, often with no symptoms initially. Regular screenings are crucial for detecting and treating polyps before they turn cancerous. Symptoms differ based on the disease's stage and may involve changes in bowel habits and unexplained weight loss.
Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation are employed for treating advanced stages, with improved outcomes if caught early. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, staying active, and avoiding smoking and excessive drinking can lower the risk of developing this cancer.
Citations
Factors related with symptom duration until diagnosis and treatment of symptomatic colorectal cancerFrequently Asked Questions
Depending on the cancer's stage, treatment options could include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and surgery to remove the tumor and any afflicted lymph nodes.
Although it is not possible to prevent every occurrence, there are lifestyle modifications that can reduce the risk, including not smoking, drinking less alcohol, consuming a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight.
The prognosis varies depending on the stage of diagnosis and individual factors. Early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes, with five-year survival rates ranging from around 90% for localized cancers to lower percentages for more advanced stages.
According to screening guidelines, people with moderate risk should begin screening at age 50 (earlier for those with risk factors or family history). Screening options such as flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years combined with stool testing every 3 years, colonoscopy every 10 years, and stool-based tests every year.
Complications from untreated colon cancer can include bowel obstruction, perforation (tear in the bowel wall), metastasis (spread to other organs), severe infections, and significant decline in overall health.
Raising awareness about colon cancer can involve sharing information about risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection through screening. Encouraging friends and family to undergo screening and live a healthy lifestyle can also contribute to prevention efforts.
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