When you notice changes in your bowel habits, you should consult with a physician. You may experience constipation or diarrhea, or you may notice that your stool is narrower or lighter than usual. If any of these changes seem to be happening more frequently, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor. Colon cancer symptoms may also include fatigue, indigestion, and weight loss. However, these symptoms should not be confused with other diseases.
It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of colon cancer as early as possible, as it gives your doctor the opportunity to perform the appropriate tests. Regular screening will detect polyps before they become cancerous and may help delay symptoms of the disease. Symptoms of colon cancer can also be indicative of a more advanced disease. However, some people may not experience symptoms of this disease until it has spread. Because these symptoms don’t necessarily occur right away, it’s best to visit a physician if you experience any of them more than twice a year.
If the symptoms don’t show up after four weeks of treatment, you may have a tumor in the distant part of your body. In stage four, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body and is metastatic, which means it has reached distant tissues. Symptoms are also different in each stage of the disease. When the tumor has spread, the symptoms will appear in an area far from the original cancer. So, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a doctor to ensure the early detection of colon cancer.
There are many stages of colon cancer. Stage 0 refers to early-stage cancer that has not spread beyond the inner layer of the colon. It is relatively easy to treat, and the cancer may not have spread far to nearby organs. During stage II, however, the cancer has spread past the colon wall and has reached one to three lymph nodes. It may have spread to the peritoneum and distant organs. Once you reach stage III, it’s imperative that you consult a physician to determine whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Early-stage colon cancer can be removed without an abdominal incision. Your doctor will insert a tube into your colon and cut the cancer using the tube. This surgery is called a polypectomy and involves the removal of part of the colon along with the healthy tissue surrounding it. Afterward, your doctor may sew the healthy tissue back together. Sometimes, your doctor will remove lymph nodes near the colon and examine them for cancer cells. Occasionally, your doctor may also recommend a colonoscopy.
Early detection is the best way to protect your body from this terrible disease. Regular colon screenings can save your life, and you may even discover the cancer in its early stages. Your doctor can even help you detect it in its early stages. Having regular screenings will ensure that it doesn’t spread and improve your quality of life. Remember to eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and to watch your weight. If you’re not experiencing any of these symptoms, consult your doctor.
