Colon cancer does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. However, some people may experience subtle changes in their bowel habits, such as occasional constipation or diarrhea. It is important to note that these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, and their presence does not necessarily mean that you have colon cancer. Regular screening is the best way to detect colon cancer before symptoms appear.
As colon cancer progresses, symptoms may include:
- Blood in the stool or bleeding in the rectum
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Feeling tired and exhausted.
- Persistent abdominal cramps or gas pains.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Lump in the abdomen or rectum.
- Bowel obstruction, which may cause pain, bloating, and constipation.
It is important to remember that some of these symptoms may also be caused by other conditions, and having these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have colon cancer. However, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they are persistent or worsening, it is important to see a healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Regular screening is also important for early detection and prevention of colon cancer.
As colon cancer progresses, symptoms may include:
The difference between the symptoms of colon cancer and irritable bowel syndrome. Colon cancer and irritable bowel syndrome (acute ulcerative colitis) are two completely different conditions.
Symptoms of colon cancer include:
- Presence of blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Abdominal pain.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Unexplained weakness and fatigue.
- A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation.
Whereas irritable bowel syndrome symptoms include:
- Abdominal and intestinal pain.
- A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, or alternating between diarrhea and constipation.
- Flatulence and flatulence.
- Sensation of not emptying the bowels completely.
Although some of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can be similar to those of colon cancer, the causative agents and pathogenesis are different. Therefore, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor to determine the possible cause and get appropriate treatment.
What’s Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is a neoplastic disease of the large intestine from the ileo-cecal junction till the rectum that is the last part of the large bowel that connects to the anus. The cells in the lining of the large bowel grow unregulated creating polyps and cancers.
Colon Cancer Causes
The exact cause of colon cancer is not known, but several factors can increase a person’s risk of developing colon cancer:
- Age: Colon cancer is most common in people over 50 years of age, and older age is a risk
factor - Family history: People with a family history of colon cancer or polyps are at increased risk.
- Genetic factors: Some genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous
polyposis, can increase the risk of colon cancer. - Lifestyle factors: A diet high in red and processed meats and low in fiber and lacking in fruits
and vegetables can increase the risk of colon cancer. Other lifestyle factors that can increase
risk include obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption. - Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s
disease, and ulcerative colitis, can increase the risk of colon cancer. - Previous cancer treatment: People who have had radiation therapy for other types of cancer,
such as prostate or cervical cancer, may have an increased risk of developing colon cancer.
- Age: Colon cancer is most common in people over 50 years of age, and older age is a risk
It is important to note that having one or more risk factors does not mean that a person will develop colon cancer. Regular screening tests, such as a colonoscopy, can help detect colon cancer early, when it is most treatable.
Colon cancer diagnostic tests
There are several diagnostic tests that are commonly used to screen for colon cancer or to evaluate individuals at risk of developing colon cancer. These include:
- Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible tube with a camera at the end is inserted through the rectum into the colon. This allows the doctor to examine the inside of the colon and identify any abnormal growths or polyps that may be precancerous or cancerous. If any abnormal tumors are found, they can be removed and sent for further testing.
Fecal occult blood test: This is a non-invasive test that checks for blood in the stool. Colon cancer can cause bleeding in the colon, and this blood can be detected in the stool. If blood is detected, further testing, such as a colonoscopy, may be recommended. - Stool DNA test: A stool DNA test is another non-invasive test that checks for DNA changes in the stool that may indicate the presence of colon cancer. This test is less invasive than a colonoscopy but not as accurate.
- CT colonoscopy: CT colonoscopy, also known as a virtual colonoscopy, is a non-invasive test that uses CT scanning technology to produce detailed images of the colon. These images may be used to identify any abnormalities or growths in the colon.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy: A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure similar to a colonoscopy, but it only examines the lower part of the colon and the rectum. This procedure is less invasive than colonoscopy but may miss abnormalities or growths in the upper part of the colon.
If any abnormalities or growths are detected during any of these tests, further tests or a colonoscopy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best treatment plan.
Stages of colon cancer
After a colon cancer diagnosis, your treating physician will order several tests to assess the severity of the disease or how far the cancer has spread. Stages of colon cancer:
- The first stage of cancer- the cancer is small and has not spread to other organs.
- Stage II cancer- the cancer is larger but has not spread.
- Stage III cancer- the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.
- Stage IV cancer- the cancer has spread to other organs and tissues far from it.
Prevention of colon cancer
These are some of Prof. Dr. Antonio Privitera‘s tips for cancer prevention:
- Increase the intake of fibers and reduce the food that contains unhealthy fats.
- Exercise regularly.
- Visit your doctor urgently if any rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, abdominal, rectal or anal pain.
- Discuss with yor primary physician screening fort the early detection of colon and rectal cancer.
Colon Cancer treatment Dubai
Colon cancer can be cured by surgery. Depending on the stage of the disease chemotherapy can be given before and after the surgery.
