When can cancer of the bowel be diagnosed? This depends on the type of cancer, location and spread. The symptoms of cancer of the bowel may vary from one person to another. In the early stages of colon cancer, there may be no signs or symptoms at all. However, in later stages of the disease, people with a blockage on the right side of the colon may have noticeable symptoms such as bloating, weakness, and a painful bowel movement.
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon and rectum. Other types of cancer of the colon are rare but may affect it. The large intestine absorbs water from food, while the colon dispenses waste products. The large bowel is the most common part of the body affected by bowel cancer. The colon is made up of four different sections: the ascending colon, transverse colon, and descending colon. The sigmoid colon is the last section, shaped like an “S,” and is located at the cecum.
Advanced bowel cancer is often treated with drugs that move throughout the body and kill cancer cells. These drugs include chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Chemotherapy drugs affect cancer cells that divide rapidly, while targeted therapy drugs target specific molecules in cells. Treatment for advanced bowel cancer can lead to side effects, including changes in sexual and fertility. The best way to decide on the best treatment for your situation is to consult with a doctor. Often, the first step is to visit a GP, who will assess the severity of your symptoms.
Advanced bowel cancer patients may undergo molecular testing. This test checks a biopsy sample for gene mutations and other features of cancer cells. If molecular testing reveals a positive result, further genetic testing is necessary. Depending on your case, testing may take a couple of days, and your doctor will determine whether you need further treatment. You can get support and information from the Cancer Council, as well as a cancer nurse.
After a diagnosis of cancer bowel, treatment is the most common option. Surgery is the most common way to treat bowel cancer, and patients may choose robotic surgery or keyhole surgery to remove their disease. Both types of surgery are effective, and patients may need advice on recovering from the surgery and living with a stoma. In addition, patients may be concerned about their finances. Depending on the stage of the cancer, the surgeon may recommend a surgery that may not be covered by insurance.
In addition to colorectal cancer, bowel cancer can be diagnosed with symptoms such as a lump in the anus or abdominal pain. While most bowel cancers begin in the large bowel, there are some less common types that start in the small intestine. Even though small bowel cancer is rare, any changes in the bowel’s function should be analyzed for any signs of cancer. You should visit your doctor if you find blood in your stool or a change in your regular bowel habits.
