Colon Cancer

 

Colon cancer is cancer that starts in either the colon or the rectum. Colon cancer and rectal cancer have many features in common. They are discussed together here.

 

Symptoms

Colorectal cancer may cause one or more of these symptoms.. If you have any of the following you should see your doctor: A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, that lasts for more than a few days. A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so. Rectal bleeding, dark stools, or blood in the stool (often, though, the stool will look normal). Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain. Weakness and fatigue or unintended weight loss.  Most of these symptoms are more often caused by conditions other than colorectal cancer, such as infection, hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome, or inflammatory bowel disease. Still, if you have any of these problems, it’s important to see your doctor right away so the cause can be found and treated, if needed.

 

Outlook - Prognosis 

Every person is different and responds differently to treatment. However, with prompt and appropriate treatment, the outlook for a person with colorectal cancer is hopeful. The survival rate for people with colorectal cancer depends on the extent of the cancer at the time of diagnosis and the individual’s response to treatment. In addition, many new discoveries have the potential for improving the treatment of colorectal cancer, as well as the prognosis.  Many people who have had colorectal cancer live normal life spans. The treatments available today offer good outcomes, but you may require several treatments or a combination of treatments (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation) to have the best chance of avoiding a recurrence of the cancer.

 

Support Groups

You can ease the stress of illness by joining a prostate cancer support group. Sharing with others who have common experiences and problems can help you not feel alone.  Please contact Circle of Hope Inc. for our support meeting schedule. (661) 254-5218