Colorectal Cancer

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal Cancer begins with no symptoms at all. However, over a period of time there can be a number of warning signs : 

• Rectal bleeding. 
  Blood in stool ( bright red, black, or very dark)
  A change in bowel movements, especially in the shape of the stool ( e.g. narrow like a pencil).
  Cramping pain in the lower abdomen.
  The urge to move bowels when there is no need. 
  Weight loss without dieting. 
  Constant fatigue. 

Most often, these symptoms are not due to cancer. Other health problems can cause the same symptoms. Anyone with these symptoms should see a doctor so that any problem can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. Screening should be done even if there are no symptoms for two reasons. The early stage of Colorectal Cancer - which is when it is most curable - frequently does not cause any symptoms and screening is the only way to find polyps. If the polyps are removed, they cannot develop into cancer 

Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer

If a person has any signs or symptoms of Colorectal Cancer, it must be determined whether they are due to cancer or some other cause. The person may have to undergo one or more of the screening tests. If tests show an abnormality such as a polyp, a biopsy is done to check for cancer cells. 

There are several types of screening tests. People at average risk should start screening at the age of 50 years. People at increased risk should start screening at 40 years. 

Faecal occult blood test (FOBT) : In this procedure, the stool is tested for the presence of blood that is invisible to the eye. This test is recommended annually for persons above 50 years, and at average risk. 

Sigmoidoscopy : In this test the rectum and the lower part of the colon are examined for polyps and cancer. If a polyp is found, it is removed with the help of the scope and sent for testing. The procedure of removal of polyps is called a polypectomy. This test is recommended every five years beginning at the age 50 for people at average risk. 

Colonoscopy : This procedure is done to view the entire colon land rectum for polyps or cancer. If polyps are found, the doctor removes them. 

Barium enema : This procedure is recommended as a substitute for colonoscopy every 10 years. 

If you are diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer, surgery is generally required to remove the cancerous polyps and other malignant tissues. The type of surgery and follow-up treatment will depend on how far advanced the cancer is .

If a person has any signs or symptoms of Colorectal Cancer, it must determined whether they are due to cancer or some other cause. The person may have to undergo one or more of the screening tests. If tests show an abnormality such as a polyp, a biopsy is done to check for cancer cells. If the biopsy shows that cancer is present, it is important to know the extent (stage) of the disease to plan the best treatment. The stage is based on whether the tumour has invaded nearby tissues, whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to which parts of the body. 

Colorectal Cancer
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer
Treatment for Colorectal Cancer