Common Early Symptoms of Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is quickly becoming the most common type of cancer, and in most cases is a silent killer. In its early stages there are very few symptoms, and since screening usually isn't recommended until after age 50, colon cancer can go undetected. Fortunately there are some symptoms to look for, and you can insist on regular screenings starting at an earlier age, especially if you have a family history of this type of cancer. There is a very high success rate for treating colon cancer if it's detected early.
Identification
Colon cancer in the early stages is a small growth that forms inside the colon called a polyp. Polyps are common and usually start to show up in the colon after age 50. During routine screenings any polyps found can be removed before they have a chance to turn into cancer. Not all polyps will become cancer, but since there is no way of telling which will, any found will be removed. If the polyps in the colon start to grow abnormal cells, these cells stick together and form tumors.
Symptoms
When polyps grow in the colon they don't create any symptoms, but leave them to turn into tumors and the symptoms of colon cancer become very real. As soon as you experience any of these symptoms it's important to seek medical advice because some colon cancer symptoms could be signs of another type of intestinal problem other then cancer. The most common symptoms are pain in the stomach, a change in bowl movements (especially if the color becomes very dark and there is blood in the stools), feeling like you cannot finish a bowel movement, fatigue and unexplained weight loss.
Considerations
If everyone was screened for colon cancer on a regular basis, tens of thousands of lives would be saved. That is how serious this type of cancer is and how successful the treatment can be. Colon cancer rarely has early warning signs--it can only be detected early enough to ensure successful treatment by having regular screenings. At age 50+ if you are not already getting screened it would be wise to do so. As with all medical concerns, it's always good to discuss colon cancer with your doctor--he can decide if you are at a higher risk for this type of cancer and if you should start screenings at an earlier age.
Screenings
There are several ways doctors can check for polyps and cancer in the colon, the most common being a colonoscopy. In this procedure a lighted scope is used to see inside the entire colon. A stool sample test or FOBT can be done to look for blood in the stool and detect cancer through DNA. An X-ray can also be used after a barium solution is put into the colon, making the entire colon viewable via X-ray. If any of these basic screenings show potential colon cancer, further tests are done like a CT scan, MRI, ultrasound or full blood chemistry panel. Your doctor will decide which tests are best for you.
Prevention/Solution
It cannot be emphasized enough that the most proven prevention for colon cancer is screening tests. In addition, a healthy lifestyle that includes maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and regular exercise can lessen the risk of developing colon cancer. Also cutting back on alcohol and tobacco use has been found beneficial because those who use these substances have a higher rate of colon cancer.
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