Some patients with colon cancer may not experience any symptoms at all. But as the tumor continues to grow, it will obstruct the normal gas and stool to flow, causing painful symptoms. These symptoms can include abdominal cramping, blood in stool, and a change in bowel habits. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately. A biopsy is required to confirm whether the condition is cancerous.
If the cancer has spread, surgery will likely not cure it, but it can prolong the life of a patient. Colon cancer surgeries remove the cancerous growth, as well as some of the nearby lymph nodes. If the cancer is found early enough, the doctor may recommend chemotherapy before the surgery. This medication may help shrink tumors. If the cancer has spread too far, surgery may not be the only treatment option. However, removing cancerous tissue can extend the life span of a patient.
Although colon cancer is not the same as other types of cancer, the treatment options for it are incredibly advanced. Advances in immunotherapy and chemotherapy have improved the outlook for many patients. Surgical interventions are still necessary to cure colon cancer, but if the cancer is detected early, surgery is a viable option. Patients can even live for years with metastatic disease if they have an aggressive treatment plan. In addition to surgery, there are also numerous chemotherapy options available for patients with colon cancer.
Patients with colon cancer should seek support and educate family and friends about the disease and its treatment. A cancer treatment center will likely offer a support group. Stage 3 colon cancer is more severe than stage 1 or stage 2. Early symptoms include a change in bowel habits, bleeding, and unusual tiredness. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible. In addition to chemotherapy, your doctor will likely prescribe radiation to shrink the tumor before a surgery.
When a biopsy is performed, a pathology report will summarize the findings. Your healthcare provider will receive this report as part of the diagnostic process. You can also request a copy for your records. During your treatment, your doctor will determine a stage for your colon cancer. Stage I is the most aggressive, while stage IV is the least severe. Despite its advanced stage, colon cancer will still cause pain. So if you feel abdominal pain or bloating, don’t ignore it. It’s best to have a screening for colon cancer as soon as possible.
Surgery is the most common form of treatment for colon cancer. During this procedure, the doctor will remove the tumor and polyps. In some cases, the doctor may remove lymph nodes if they are also involved. If a colon cannot be removed after surgery, a colostomy may be necessary. Chemotherapy may be necessary to shrink the tumor. Other treatments may include targeted therapies and interventional radiology. Although colon cancer treatment will be different for each patient, the end result will likely be the same.
