Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., with more than 140,000 new cases and 50,000 deaths each year. It can be difficult to detect, especially in its early stages, because it doesn't usually cause any physical symptoms.
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People with colorectal cancer may experience some signs or symptoms including:
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Bleeding from the rectum or blood in their stool
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A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
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Nausea and vomiting
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Feeling full after eating only a small amount
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A feeling of something being stuck or coming out when there's not really anything there
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Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosis & Treatment Options of Colorectal Cancer
The diagnosis and treatment options for colorectal cancer can be different depending on the patient's age, medical history, and other factors. For example, a patient who has an abnormal colonoscopy but no family history of the disease or symptoms may not need treatment.
Digital rectal exam (DRE) to check for lumps in your rectum or anus area
The digital rectal exam is an examination of the rectum and the prostate through the anus. It is often done as part of a physical examination, to check for abnormalities that may be cancerous.
The advantages are that DREs are noninvasive, can detect changes in cells or tissue, and are painless. One disadvantage is that it takes a long time to do a DRE on someone who has an enlarged prostate. It may also be difficult to do with people who have spinal cord injuries.
Colonoscopy to look inside your large intestine
Colonoscopy is a test performed on the large intestine using an endoscope. It is used to help diagnose any problems in the large intestine.
A colonoscopy is performed by inserting a long, thin flexible tube with a camera attached at its end called an "endoscope" into the anus and rectum. A doctor or specially trained health professional will then guide the endoscope through the large intestine to look for any problems.
A colonoscopy can be uncomfortable or painful, but it doesn't usually take long and most people recover quickly with only minor discomfort after. Some people find it difficult or impossible to have bowel movements before their colonoscopy so they may need special preparation beforehand.
CT scan to detect a tumor and measure its size
CT scans have become a standard for detecting cancerous tumors and measuring their size. They are often used when doctors want to assess the possible risk of the tumor to the patient.
CT scans are now routinely used in hospitals for a variety of reasons. In some cases, they are used to detect a tumor and measure its size. Depending on the size, CT scans may be followed up with other tests such as blood tests, ultrasounds or biopsies.
The CT scan is widely accepted as an effective way to detect cancerous tumors by physicians and patients alike. It has been proven that CT scans can accurately detect cancers in about 95% of cases if done properly and interpreted by a qualified doctor.
Colorectal cancer diet and lifestyle
A diet that includes whole grains, fiber rich fruits and vegetables, low fat dairy products, and lean meats can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. There are also other factors which can contribute to colorectal cancer such as exposure to toxins from smoke or pesticides, obesity or being over 50 years old. Contributing factors aside there are preventative measures people should take to lower their risk of developing colorectal cancer. There are some studies which have shown that a diet high in fiber intake decreases your chances of developing colon cancer.
Here are some of the foods you should avoid:
Eating healthy foods is a must if you are diagnosed with colorectal cancer. You need to avoid certain foods that could lead to a relapse or even worse, an untimely death.
- Processed meats - these meats use preservatives and are processed at high temperatures, which can lead to increased risk of colorectal cancer
- Beers and alcohols - these contain sugar, which is not good for your gastrointestinal system. Sugars can promote inflammation in the colon and increase the risk of colorectal cancer
- Fried foods - these food items contain a high level of trans fats that can lead to inflammation in your body
How to tell your loved ones you have colorectal cancer
You probably already know that you have colorectal cancer. But you may need to tell your loved ones about it because they are your support network and family, and they deserve to know what’s going on.
First, it can be helpful to think about how to break the news before you actually do so. It is important not to make this conversation all about colorectal cancer; instead, use it as a way to reach out and connect with your loved ones. The first thing you should ask yourself is whether or not your family will be able to understand the diagnosis and what this means for their future without being overwhelmed by fear and grief.
When you know you have to tell your loved ones that you have cancer, it may be hard to get the words out of your mouth. It may be even harder for them to ask questions and process this information.
Another important thing is to be prepared for the reactions of your loved ones. The way in which you do this will have a big impact on how they react.
One of the key things to remember when telling somebody that you have cancer is to not wait until it’s too late. They may think you are just being dramatic and brush off your worries, or they might think you're dying and be overwhelmed by the situation, both of which would not be helpful.
At Superior Compounding Pharmacy we provide compounding medications for colorectal cancer in Plymouth Michigan and the surrounding areas. Call us today at 866-862-7520 for a complimentary medication consultation.