Colon cancer originates in the lower portion of our gastrointestinal tract. This is a very common cancer-type, and is tough to treat if diagnosis occurs during the last stages. Chances of colon cancer increases in people with previous histories of bowel disorders and colon polyps. The risk factors of this cancer include alcohol intake, smoking, type 2 diabetes, and consumption of processed meats. For treatment of colon cancer, neuroendocrine tumors Singapore, lung cancer, and others, you can visit Novena Cancer Centre. Read on to learn in detail about the stage-wise symptoms of colon cancer.
Check Out Symptoms Of Colon Cancer
To understand Colon Cancer Symptoms correctly, we need to go through them stage-wise. The disease can be divided into 4 distinct stages. During initial stages of the ailment, symptoms will be mild and less specific. However, as the disease aggravates, the symptoms become more intense.
Stages 1 and 2
1. Diarrhea
2 Constipation
3. Blood in stool
4. Rectal bleeding
5. Abdominal cramps and pain
6. Gas formation
7. Prominent changes in the shape and color of stool
Stage 3
1. Sudden weight loss
2. Extreme fatigue and weakness
3. A feeling that bowels are not emptying fully.
4. Significant changes in stool
5. Vomiting
Stage 4
1. Difficulty in breathing
2. Hands and feet become swollen
3. Jaundice
4. Bone Fractures
5. Vision becomes blurry
6. Chronic headaches
Colon Cancer Treatment
There are multiple strategies that can be used for treating colon cancer. The best strategy is determined after examining the condition of the cancer patient. Keep reading to learn about different colon cancer treatment strategies.
1. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs, like irinotecan, capecitabine, oxaliplatin, and fluorouracil. Most patients undergo chemotherapy sessions after the successful completion of their surgery This session helps in destroying the lingering cancer cells completely. Chemotherapy sessions can also control cancer growth efficiently.
2. Surgery
Treating colon cancer by surgery usually occurs when the cancer is in its initial stages. Sometimes, a portion of the colon is removed through surgery if the cancer has already spread to its walls. But, if the cancerous polyp has not attached itself to the colon walls, then there is no need to remove the colon.
3. Radiation
In this technique, the cancerous mass is exposed to high energy radiation. This radiation has the capacity to kill the cancer cells. This treatment strategy can be used in colon cancer patients both before, and after undergoing surgery.
4. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy involves the use of different types of medications, like ramucirumab, cetuximab, regorafenib, nivolumab, and others. These medications can be used in patients who are in the late stages of colon cancer.
Conclusion
For efficient colon cancer, lung cancer, and neuroendocrine tumors Singapore treatment, you can visit Novena Cancer Centre. The experienced oncologists of this cancer hospital will determine the stage of the colon cancer, and start the necessary treatments immediately. They will ensure that patients are given comprehensive care and support to battle the colon cancer, and its symptoms successfully.