Treatment for colon cancer can include surgery or chemotherapy. Surgical treatments may involve removing part of the colon and neighboring lymph nodes. The surgeon may then reattach the colon to the rectum. Other treatment options include colostomy, which is an opening in the abdominal wall for waste to pass through. Colonostomy may be temporary or permanent. Chemotherapy may also be used to control the growth of the tumor. However, chemotherapy may come with side effects.
In early stage colon cancer, removal can be done without cutting the abdominal wall. A physician can insert a tube with a cutting tool into the colon and remove the cancer. Other surgical treatments include polypectomy and local excision. This last procedure is aimed at relieving symptoms caused by colon cancer. This procedure is not recommended for people with advanced disease, however. Fortunately, many doctors are trained to perform this operation. Choosing the right treatment option is crucial for a patient’s health.
Patients with advanced stage colon cancer may opt for chemotherapy. This treatment interferes with the division of cells by damaging their DNA and proteins. It is not toxic to healthy cells but may cause side effects. Moreover, chemotherapy occurs in cycles and is usually combined with other treatment options to help patients cope with the side effects. But before undergoing the treatment, it’s important to understand what the treatment options are and how they will affect the patient’s overall health.
Many cancer treatments are available for colon cancer. If detected early, it may be curable. However, if left untreated, the disease can be deadly. The most common treatment for colon cancer is chemotherapy. The treatment will depend on the stage of the disease, size, and location of the cancer. If you notice persistent or severe symptoms, consult your doctor. Many colon cancer patients don’t experience any symptoms. But they should visit a physician for a proper diagnosis.
Screening tests for colon cancer vary by type. Some examine DNA from stool samples. Others focus on visual exams of the colon. Learn about screening tests for colon cancer from OncoLink. Patients with genetic syndromes or family history should have more frequent screenings. This way, doctors can decide the most appropriate treatment plan for their patients. If you are unsure, ask your doctor about your risk factors and get screened sooner. It may be worth your time and money.
If treatment fails, colon cancer can return. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are effective options for advanced colon cancer. Chemotherapy can help improve symptoms and extend life. When combined with surgery, these treatments can also be used to treat the remaining cancer cells. However, it is important to remember that the treatment for colon cancer should be individualized. It should not be done on its own. There is no magic solution. But these treatments will provide some relief to the patients.
Imaging techniques for colon cancer include sigmoidoscopies and colonoscopies. The X-rays may require a barium contrast solution, which coats the colon lining. The CT scan, also called virtual colonoscopy, offers detailed images of the colon. But there are also risks associated with using it to diagnose colon cancer. Therefore, it is important to undergo regular screenings to ensure the best treatment for colon cancer.
