In fact, more than 50% of anal cancers are diagnosed too late. This is because the anal cancer symptoms may be caused by another problem or have no connection with the anal area at all. It is essential to seek medical advice and see a colon and rectal surgeon for a proper diagnosis.
Anal cancer symptoms can include difficulty controlling bowel movements, frequent pooing, loose poop, and more. Some people may experience no symptoms at all and never even know they have the disease. In fact, more than 20 out of 100 people with anal cancer will not show any of these signs and symptoms. This is a cause for concern, as only 10% to 15% of anal cancer cases will spread to nearby organs.
Patients with weak immune systems are at increased risk of developing anal cancer. It is important to schedule a physical exam with a physician for those with symptoms affecting the anus or rectum. A biopsy of the tumour is performed in an operating room. A small sample of tissue can be obtained through local anesthetic. The biopsy will help determine if there is a tumor or a mass in the anus. Stage 0 cancers are usually very early. A stage 1 anal cancer is when the tumour is less than two centimetres in diameter and there is no evidence that the cancer has spread to lymph nodes.
Most cases of anal cancer are curable with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Depending on its stage, the doctor will decide on the best treatment method for you. The treatment options for the various anal cancer symptoms will depend on the severity of the condition. Most anal cancer patients will be diagnosed in stage I, but if the tumour is more advanced, it may have spread to nearby organs. On the other hand, in stage III, the cancer may spread to the lymph nodes in the abdomen or other organs.
The earliest stage of anal cancer is Stage I, with a tumour smaller than two centimetres. However, stage II tumours may be larger. A patient with a stage III tumour should visit a doctor if there are signs of these symptoms. In some cases, chemoradiation will cure the cancer completely. The most common treatment options for stage III and IV anal cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and symptomatic medications.
The symptoms of anal cancer can vary. It can cause difficulty controlling bowel movements, blood in stools, and difficulty controlling bowel movements. For more serious forms of anal cancer, it can cause permanent damage to the anus. Fortunately, most cases can be treated with a combination of radiation and dietary supplements. For patients with stage I and II anal cancer, it is crucial to see a specialist as soon as possible.
