If you suspect you might have rectal cancer, bowel irritation from the treatment can make your symptoms worse. In addition to pain, bowel irritation can be caused by some foods. Some people find that fizzy drinks and high fibre foods irritate their bowels. To make sure you do not have the condition, it is wise to keep a food diary. A low fibre diet is best, as it reduces the likelihood of rectal cancer irritation.
While some people do not experience any discomfort during bowel movements, frequent bowel movements are a sign of rectal cancer. Radiotherapy causes the rectum and anus to become irritated and ‘hold’ stool less well. Some people even experience bowel incontinence after radiotherapy. Pain in the pelvic area is another symptom of rectal cancer, and can be reduced with painkillers and medications. The good news is that rectal pain usually subsides within two or three weeks of treatment.
While rectal cancer is the least likely cause of this type of itch, it can still be uncomfortable and dangerous to your health. It can cause painful symptoms like chronic skin irritation or an open sore. If you notice persistent itching in the anal region, consult your healthcare provider immediately. If the irritation is severe, a biopsy will be needed to determine the cause of the irritation. The sensitivity of the skin around the rectal area can also be increased by excessive cleaning.
Symptoms can also be accompanied by certain tests, including a complete blood count. A low red blood cell count can indicate blood loss in the area affected by cancer. A high white blood cell count, on the other hand, can indicate infection. Rectal tumors are known to cause an increased risk of infection. Certain chronic conditions, including diabetes and high cholesterol, can also cause inflammation in the gut. A chemistry panel test can also identify liver cancer and kidney failure.
Surgery is a common treatment for rectal cancer. Surgical removal of the affected part of the rectum and lymph nodes can help reduce the pain caused by the cancer. Small tumors are typically removed through an anus or abdomen opening, and a portion of normal rectum is removed on each side. In rare cases, a colostomy is required, although this is rare. However, highly trained surgeons can use other procedures that are less invasive.
Surgery for rectal cancer depends on the size of the tumor, the distance the cancer has traveled from the anus, and the depth it has penetrated the rectal wall. Surgical procedures to remove the cancer may also require a permanent colostomy. A colostomy is a hole in the abdominal wall that allows large intestine contents to empty through the abdominal wall into a colostomy bag. Temporary colostomies may be closed once the cancer has healed.
