What is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon, which is a part of your digestive system. It usually begins as small growths called polyps that can turn into cancer over time. If not caught early and treated, it can spread to other parts of the body and become more difficult to treat. That’s why regular screenings are recommended to detect it early when it’s easier to treat.
What are the symptoms of Colon Cancer?
The symptoms of colon cancer can vary, but some common ones to look out for include:
- Changes in bowel habits: This means anything unusual in your bathroom routine, like sudden diarrhea or constipation that lasts for more than a few days.
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding: Finding blood where it shouldn’t be, whether it’s in your stool or on the toilet paper after wiping.
- Abdominal pain or cramping: Persistent discomfort or cramps in your belly area, especially if they’re not linked to something you ate or if they won’t go away.
- Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying could be a sign that something’s up, especially if you haven’t changed your diet or exercise routine.
- Constant fatigue: Feeling tired all the time, even if you’re getting enough rest, could be a red flag.
- Incomplete bowel emptying: This means feeling like you still need to go even after you’ve already had a bowel movement.
- Persistent gas or bloating: Feeling excessively gassy or bloated for no apparent reason, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.
Remember, these signs can sometimes be caused by other issues, but if you’re experiencing any of them, it’s wise to get checked out, just to be safe. Early detection can make a big difference in treatment success.
Screening for Colon Cancer
Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colon cancer screening because it is thorough and allows for both detection and removal of precancerous growths.
What Happens During A Colonoscopy
- Preparation: Before a colonoscopy, you’ll need to clean out your colon so the doctor can see clearly during the procedure. This usually involves drinking a special solution to empty your bowels and following a specific diet for a day or two before the test.
- Procedure: During the colonoscopy, you’ll lie on your side while the doctor inserts a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope into your rectum and slowly advances it through your colon. The colonoscope has a tiny camera and light on the end, allowing the doctor to see the inside of your colon on a monitor.
- Visual Examination: The doctor carefully examines the lining of your colon, looking for any abnormalities such as polyps, ulcers, or signs of inflammation. If they find any polyps, they can remove them during the procedure using small tools passed through the colonoscope.
- Sedation: Most people are given sedation medication to help them relax and minimize discomfort during the procedure. You’ll likely be awake but may not remember much afterward.
- Duration: A colonoscopy typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on factors like the condition of your colon and whether any polyps need to be removed.
- Recovery: After the procedure, you’ll spend some time in a recovery area until the sedation wears off. You may experience some cramping, gas, or bloating afterward, but these symptoms usually resolve quickly.
How Can I Prevent or Lessen The Chances of Having Colon Cancer
To decrease the likelihood of developing colon cancer, it’s essential to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Start by maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while minimizing processed and red meats.
Maintaining a healthy weight through a combination of nutritious eating habits and regular exercise is crucial, as obesity is linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. Engage in physical activity such as brisk walking, jogging, or swimming for at least 30 minutes most days of the week to further reduce risk.
Limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking can also significantly lower the risk of developing colon cancer.
By implementing these preventive measures, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their colon health and overall well-being. While the risk of colon cancer cannot be entirely eliminated, taking proactive steps to reduce risk through lifestyle changes can significantly lower the chances of developing this disease. If you have a family history of colon cancer or are experiencing symptoms of the disease, get screened early start it by scheduling a consultation with a Gastroenterologist doctor of Asian Hospital and Medical Center.