What is bowel cancer
Colorectal cancer develops when cells in the intestine begin to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor that damages intestinal tissues. Over time, it can spread to other organs.
At the first stage , the tumor is already visible and grows from the mucous membrane into the submucosal layer, but it does not yet affect lymph nodes and does not metastasize .
Bowel cancer can occur in people of any age, but there are risk factors:
- Age over 50 years
- Family history of bowel cancer
- Personal history of cancer, Crohn's disease, Lynch syndrome
- large polyps (>1 cm)
- Obesity, diabetes, smoking, alcohol
- sedentary lifestyle
- Diet high in fat and processed meat
- Radiotherapy in the past
6 Early Signs of Bowel Cancer (Stage 1)
The initial symptoms may be mild, but they help detect the disease in time.
1. Change in bowel habits
Constipation, diarrhea, frequent urges, a feeling of incomplete bowel movements appear. The tumor interferes with the normal passage of feces, causes discomfort and sometimes partial obstruction.
2. Change the shape of the stool
- Contents
A thin, “ribbon-shaped” chair indicates a narrowing of the intestinal lumen. Mucus, blood, excessive dryness or fluid with blood filaments are possible.
3. Abdominal pain
Usually dull and constant, most often low in the abdomen. Antispasmodics almost do not help.
4. Loss of appetite and fatigue
Microbleeding can lead to anemia, which causes weakness, dizziness and general exhaustion.
5. Digestive disorders
Swelling heaviness after eating, belching, upset. Symptoms are non-specific, but can be an early signal.
6. Unexplained weight loss
Losing weight without a change in lifestyle is a characteristic sign of cancer.
When the disease progresses, the following occurs:
- dark blood in the stool
- severe pain
- significant swelling
- fatigue
- nausea
- rapid weight loss
Can bowel cancer be cured?
Yes. In the early stages, it is successfully treated, the main method being surgical removal of the tumor.
When to see a doctor
If within 2 weeks they persist:
- blood in the stool
- constipation or diarrhea
- change in the shape of the stool
- swelling, pain
- weakness and weight loss
It is necessary to do a study as soon as possible .
Who should do screening
- people over 40-50 years old
- in case of heredity
- In the presence of polyps or inflammatory bowel diseases
Methods: stool test for occult hemorrhages, complete blood count, colonoscopy, CT, barium X-ray.
How to reduce risk
- Eating a lot of fiber and less red meat
- Daily physical activity
- Weight control
- Limiting alcohol and quitting smoking
- Regular preventive examinations
Early detection is the key to a complete cure.
⚠️ Disclaimer
The information in this text is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for a consultation with a doctor or medical professional . If you have symptoms or concerns, seek professional medical attention.
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