Tag Symptoms

Dr. V S N Rao, Chief Radiation Oncologist,  Director – Medical Services & HOD – Radiation Oncology,HCG Cancer Centre, Vijayawada

Simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in preventing colorectal cancer. By incorporating healthy habits into our daily routine, we can reduce our risk and improve overall well-being. A balanced diet rich in fiber, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption are all crucial steps in protecting ourselves against colorectal cancer. In addition to these lifestyle changes, understanding risk factors, recognizing symptoms, and undergoing regular screening can save lives.

Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It occurs when abnormal cells in the colon or rectum grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming tumors.

Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer

Several factors increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Age is a significant factor, with risk increasing after 50 years. A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps in first-degree relatives also raises the risk. Additionally, genetic conditions such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) can increase susceptibility. Lifestyle factors, including a low-fiber, high-fat diet, physical inactivity, obesity, and smoking, also contribute to the risk.

Recognizing Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Early-stage colorectal cancer often has no symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, warning signs may appear. These include blood in the stool, changes in bowel movements, abdominal pain or cramping, weakness and fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. It is essential to seek medical attention if any of these symptoms persist.

The Importance of Screening and Diagnosis

Regular screening can detect colorectal cancer in its early stages, significantly improving treatment outcomes. Adults 50 and older should undergo colonoscopy every 10 years, while annual fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) and computed tomography (CT) colonography every five years are also recommended.

Prevention through Lifestyle Changes

Reducing the risk of colorectal cancer requires adopting healthy lifestyle habits. A balanced diet rich in fiber and low in fat, regular exercise of at least 30 minutes per day, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption can significantly lower the risk.

Stages and Treatment Options for Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is staged from I to IV, depending on the extent of tumor growth and spread. Treatment options vary based on the stage and severity of the disease. Surgery is often the primary treatment, involving the removal of tumors and affected tissue. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy may also be employed to kill cancer cells and prevent recurrence.

Current Research and Advances in Colorectal Cancer

Ongoing research focuses on genetic testing to identify high-risk individuals, immunotherapy to boost the immune response, and personalized medicine to tailor treatment approaches. These advancements hold promise for improving diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes. Colorectal cancer is a preventable and treatable disease.

Different types of blood cancers affect the function of blood cells and can disrupt the body’s ability to fight infections, regulate bleeding and maintain a healthy bone marrow. Chronic leukemia is a type of blood cancer that grows slowly and does not have any recognizable symptoms. But others like acute leukemia, lymphoma or multiple myeloma can present a variety of symptoms, recognizing which becomes essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. This listicle will talk about 7 most common symptoms noticed in people suffering from blood cancer.

1. Excess Fatigue and Tiredness – When no amount of rest will seem enough with a constant feeling of weakness that doesn’t improve, it can be a key indicator of blood cancer. Anemia is responsible for this symptom and is characterized by insufficient red cells to oxygenate the body because of the higher energy requirements to fight the illness. Simple things like walking may become harder and harder for an average patient until even moving slightly is met with fatigue.

2. Increased Infections – Blood diseases can render the immune system ineffective and thus can increase the chances of people suffering from infections. Common infections like colds, flu, and other related sicknesses tend to affect the individual for longer than usual. This can be indicative enough, that the individual is suffering from more than what is visible.

3. Unexplained Bruises or Bleeding – Some people might notice deep bruises appearing for no apparent reason. Few people may also tend to bleed longer than usual after small injuries. Frequent episodes of nose bleeds or bleeding from the gums are also noticed. These symptoms indicate that there is an issue with the clotting ability of the blood, thus increasing the risk of suffering from blood cancer.

4. Enlarged Lymph Nodes – Lymph Nodes are small bean-shaped structures that aid in removing poisons and other microorganisms from the blood. Growth of these lymph nodes especially in the neck, armpits and groin area of a person, can lead to him/her running the risk of developing lymphoma or any other such hematological illness. People may confuse the swelling for something else as it is painless and can linger for several weeks.

5. Unintentional Weight Loss – Losing more than 10% of one’s body weight over a short period of time – without changes in diet or physical activity can be a cause of concern. In many cases, it may be associated with reduced appetite or altered perception of food. But for people suffering from blood cancer, due to a condition called cachexia wherein the body breaks down muscle and fat tissue for energy, people also tend to abnormally lose weight. If anyone is suffering from these symptoms, it is advisable that they consult a doctor immediately.

6. Night Sweats – Many people experience excessive sweating caused by hot flashes. But waking up sweating excessively, especially at night is different and can be a matter of concern. Along with disturbing the sleep cycle, people who experience this phenomenon can also have anxiety attacks and is considered to be a symptom of blood cancer as well.

7. Pale Skin – People suffer from paleness apart from being tired or fatigued. In case an individual finds a swelling in his or her skin in addition to it being pale and the color of their gums getting lighter than usual, it could indicate towards anemia. Elbows and knees often thicken or swell up when a person is suffering from blood cancer due to the low levels of red blood cells present.

Being aware of these symptoms and timely recognition of the same can help people in early diagnosis and treatment. The signs listed can become important indicators about whatever is amiss in the body and will be crucial for people to significantly improve outcomes and the quality of life.