Colorectal Cancer, commonly known as Colon Cancer is a Cancer of the colon or rectum. The symptoms of Colorectal Cancer may not be visible in the early stages, but sometimes it is visible. The symptoms include:

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Changes in the bowel

• A feeling that bowel is not empty properly

• Abdominal pain

• Tiredness

• Unexpected weight loss

• Blood in the rectum

Risk Factors

There are certain risk factors for colorectal Cancer, the most important among them are Age and Gender. Other risk factors involved are:

• Hereditary Cancer issues

• Crohn's disease in the family

• Obesity

• Seated lifestyle

• High intakes of red meat

In most cases, colorectal cancer doesn't cause any symptoms unless it has progressed further. In this case, people are required to talk with their doctors and discuss certain screening tests.

What are the screening tests for colon cancer?

There are certain screening test options available to detect the existence of the disease. It includes colonoscopy screening, Sigmoidoscopy, Fecal Occult Blood Test, CT Colonography etc.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy gives the doctor an opportunity to look inside the entire rectum. A colonoscope or a lighted tube is inserted into the rectum which allows the doctor to look for polyps.

Sigmoidoscopy

Sigmoidoscopy is similar to Colonoscopy. In this screening method, a flexible, lighted tube is inserted into the rectum to observe the existence of polyps. Polyps can be removed by the doctors to prevent cancer during the screening procedure, but that's entirely dependent on the decision of doctors.

Fecal Occult Blood Test

Blood that is found in the stool might be signaling to polyps or cancer. An early screening test in this case can lead you towards cure. You need to make sure that you have contacted your doctors at the right time.

Why is Screening important?

Colorectal cancer can be prevented through regular screening. Screening will detect polyps before they become cancerous. Consult your doctors as soon as possible and ask him/her when a screening should begin. A Colonoscopy screening could be an important method in this case.

What is the treatment for Colorectal Cancer?

Surgery is the most common treatment for colorectal cancer. A surgery can be performed only after considering the Cancer stage conditions. The stage of the Cancer will determine what type of surgery it requires. In case, if your doctor thinks that surgery is not sufficient, he/she can opt for chemotherapy.

With the Digestive Disease Specialists, Inc. you will experience our world class treatment facility. Schedule an appointment now to consult with our board certified physicians.

**Disclaimer: This blog content does not offer a doctor's advice and creates no relationship between any patient and care provider.