You might have heard that colon cancer affects older people, but that’s not entirely true. In fact, colon cancer is a disease that can strike people as young as 40. It usually starts with a polyp, which is a mass or lump in the colon that looks like a mushroom or a little toe. These cells grow faster than the surrounding skin cells and pile up. These polyps are called benign because they stay contained within the polyp itself and don’t spread to the surrounding bowel wall or stalk. However, colon cancer can develop from the cells that remain within these polyps.
The TNM classification for colon cancer uses three factors: the depth of invasion, the number of regional lymph nodes affected, and the presence of metastasis. These factors determine the stage of colon cancer. Stage three is the most advanced type, with symptoms such as change in bowel habits, unusual tiredness, and bleeding. This stage is more severe than stage one or stage two, so you will need a specialist to help you understand your symptoms and treatment options.
Although colon cancer survival rates are often lower than in other forms of cancer, a cancer expert says you should be proactive and educate yourself to make informed decisions. You can help make treatment decisions and reduce your stress by asking questions and expressing concerns. As with any cancer, the more information you have, the more informed you’ll be and the better decisions you’ll make. In addition to visiting a doctor, you should consider consulting a nutritionist. A nutritionist can provide guidance on dietary changes that are important to a patient’s overall health.
While surgery for colon cancer is generally successful, you may still develop blood clots. Your surgeon will likely prescribe an injection to reduce your risk of blood clots. Fortunately, most patients recover well enough to resume their normal daily activities within a couple of weeks. Your doctor will discuss the risks and potential benefits of returning to blood thinners. You should also discuss with your surgeon if you plan on traveling far from the hospital.
The symptoms of colon cancer vary according to stage. Stage 1 cancer often has no symptoms. In stage 2, tumors may grow to a stage that is characterized by a bowel obstruction. Treatment for this type of colon cancer is usually radiation therapy, surgery, ablation, or embolization. However, all these treatments can cause symptoms. Chemotherapy, for example, may cause neuropathic pain or a pins and needles sensation. Radiation therapy, on the other hand, may cause vaginal irritation and fatigue.
Stage 4 colon cancer is the most serious. The cancer has spread outside the colon. Treatments for stage 4 colon cancer are dependent on the extent of the cancer and its spread throughout the body. As early detection is key, there are several treatment options available. But no treatment is 100% effective and colon cancer is best detected and treated in the early stages. So, if you suspect you have colon cancer, make an appointment with a doctor immediately. Your doctor will recommend the best course of action for you.
