Wednesday, 28 November 2012

Risk factors and symptoms of Bowel Cancer

It is desirous to stay active and adopt a proper diet and lifestyle especially after the age of 50 as the risk of colon cancer is high. Colorectal cancer is claiming many and the awareness is now quite high. But it is desired that the symptoms be noted without delay so that patients can get proper and timely treatment. The tests can be done at a reputed cancer center and detecting cancer early will help in thwarting the disease.

The risks of bowel cancer are more in people with the following problems:
  •     Smokers
  •     Alcohol consumers in the excessive category
  •     People who do not exercise and are obese
  •     Men are more prone than women
  •     It is seen that it usually affects people above 50
  •     Certain ethnic races show a tendency to this type of cancer
  •     Earlier diseases of ulcerative colitis or bowel diseases
  •     Treated cases of bowel cancer earlier
The re occurrence of bowel cancer also poses a high risk. It is also noted that if anyone in the family has bowel cancer, the person has a high risk to have the same. Moreover, certain lifestyle changes can surely help a person avoid colorectal cancer.

What exactly is colon cancer?


It is noted that the colon which is a significant part of the intestine is connected with the rectum. Tissues are lined up in the colon area and the cause of polyps or tumor is noted in several cases. However, these may not be malignant and can be removed via surgery. It may take some time to understand the symptoms as the polyps may stay without causing any trouble. Once it is malignant, the right treatment is essential or it may spread via lymph nodes, blood vessels or spread via cell formation to other parts of the body.

How to avoid bowel cancer?


People who are above 50 usually report of bowel cancer but anyone may have the disease.
  •     It is essential to include exercise in the form of walks, jogging, tai chi or also enrolling in the gym
  •     Stop smoking or use of alcohol
  •     Including more pulpy fruits and vegetables
  •     Avoiding junk meals and trans fat items
  •     A healthy lifestyle with moderate exercise and good food habits.
  •     Reporting and noticing changes in bowel movements or other inconveniences
What are the basic symptoms of colorectal cancer?

The below symptoms are often misunderstood as general or appearing as indigestion. Hence it is good to record the same and report it to the oncologist. A few technological tests may be needed to support the symptoms in order to assess and confirm colon cancer

The symptoms of colorectal cancer include:
  •     Ulcerative colon disease
  •     Bowel disturbances from diarrhea to constipation
  •     Dark red tinged stools which signifies bleeding
  •     Bloating and swollen feeling in the abdomen
  •     Indigested feeling
  •     Pain or cramps in the colon as well as rectum area
  •     Difficulty while passing stools
Cancer is a progressive disease and hence treatment must be given in a timely manner. It is essential to report the symptoms of cancer to analyze reports and regard the observations of an oncologist.