Intestinal Cancer
Intestinal Cancer
The colon, also known as the large intestine, plays an important role in absorbing water and salts from digested food. After this process, waste material passes through the rectum and leaves the body through the anus.
Below are some essential facts about intestinal (colon) cancer. Detailed medical explanations are usually provided during diagnosis and treatment discussions. Colon cancer develops in the large intestine and most often begins as small growths called polyps on the inner lining of the bowel. These polyps can gradually change into cancer over time.
In the early stages, colon cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they commonly involve digestive or bowel-related problems. Treatment for colon cancer may include a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. In certain cases, treatment may require the creation of a colostomy.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a high-fiber and low-fat diet, may help reduce the risk of colon cancer. Regular screening tests are also important, as they can detect the disease at an early and more treatable stage.
Symptoms
Symptoms are often absent in the early stages of intestinal cancer, but they may develop as the disease progresses. Possible symptoms include:
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Noticeable changes in bowel habits or stool consistency
- Narrow or loose stools
- Rectal bleeding or the presence of blood in the stool
- Abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, or excessive gas
- Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
- A persistent feeling of needing to pass stool
- Ongoing weakness or fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Symptoms similar to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Iron deficiency anemia
If you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.