One of the most common oncological diseases is colorectal cancer. This term refers to the development of malignant neoplasms in the rectum and large intestine, the symptoms of which are similar in many respects, and the methods of treatment coincide.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer
Symptoms of colorectal cancer of the first stage are absent. The disease for a long time does not make itself felt and at this stage can be detected only by chance, when passing a survey of organs of an adjacent area. In the future, the tumor begins to grow and gradually begins to manifest itself as such signs:
- change in the nature of the chair;
- bleeding during defecation;
- the presence of blood clots in the feces;
- lack of appetite, nausea;
- anemia ;
- general weakness, fast fatigue;
- pain in the abdomen and hip area.
These symptoms are typical for the cancer of any part of the intestine, but there are signs that only occur in tumors located in a certain area. Cancer of the large intestine most often develops from polyps located on the wall. Gradually, it begins to expand and penetrates into the intestinal wall, closing around the ring. As a result, the gut lumen is squeezed, everything is already and already, which is guaranteed to lead to constipation and intestinal obstruction.
Cancer of the rectum can also begin with a polyp, however, the tumor in this place affects the nature of the feces more than the regularity of the stool. When defecating, you can observe a thin, "pencil" feces with traces of blood. After visiting the toilet there is a feeling of incomplete emptying of the intestine.
In the event that the cancer struck the ascending colon, the patient begins diarrhea. The fact is that in this place the intestine has thin walls, and its contents are usually liquid and semi-liquid. The tumor in the ascending colon often takes the form of a knot, and an experienced physician can feel it through the abdominal wall.
Screening for colorectal cancer includes a blood test, ultrasound examination, irrigoscopy, colonoscopy and other procedures. Good results in the early stages give an analysis of feces for latent blood, which for preventive purposes are recommended to be administered to all people over 60 and those with cancer in the family.
Metastatic colorectal cancer involves the formation of metastases, often they affect the liver, as the closest and most accessible organ. In this case, hepatic assays and a biopsy of the neoplasm tissue are necessary.
The main stages of treatment of colorectal cancer
Most often this type of cancer develops among townspeople and wealthy people, whose food is rich in animal protein, fats and refined products, including sugar. Therefore, for prevention, it is recommended that you follow a diet rich in plant fibers and slow carbohydrates.
Treatment of cancer in 70% of cases begins with the removal of the tumor. If the neoplasm is located in the rectum or next to it, surgery is possible through the anus. In all other cases, a hollow autopsy will be performed. If surgical intervention can not be carried out because of poor health and metastatic lesions of large arteries, chemotherapy is indicated
Due to the fact that the disease for a long time is asymptomatic and is usually found in very late stages, treatment allows prolonging the patient's life for 7-8 months. A whole segment of the intestine can be removed, as a result of which the patient will have to carry a kalopriemnik for the remainder of his life - a feces tank attached to the intestine that is withdrawn through the abdominal wall. In general, complete recovery with timely treatment occurs in 40% of cases.