Warning Signs Indicating the Possibility of Colon Cancer
Although colon cancer may seem intimidating, it is essential to become aware of this ailment. Learning about the symptoms always helps in getting faster treatment and fruitful consequences. This process increases the chances of curability of the disease. Your doctor in OKC may recommend a colonoscopy test before choosing a treatment plan.
Colon cancer starts as a polyp, a tiny clump of cells growing within your colon's lining. Although most of these stay harmless, some polyps start growing and causing blockages. A few others may mutate, increasing the chances of cancer. Therefore, screening is crucial for patients of all age groups.
Telltale Warning Indications
Most people do not show any symptoms until the ailment stays present for more extended periods. However, some of these signs resemble a few common non-cancerous complications like hemorrhoids or irritable bowel syndrome.
Some of these early signs include:
Extremely skinny stool.
Too much gas.
Feelings of weakness and fatigue.
An increase in the mucus in excreta.
Blood-stained or dark dropping.
Sudden weight loss.
Newer bowel issues that are hard to get rid of (such as constipation or diarrhea).
Feeling the fullness of bowels despite going.
Screening Preferences
Doubting the possibility of colon cancer, your doctor in OKC can give you several tests, some of which include:
Colonoscopy. Doctors recommend this test at the early stages.
A set of blood tests to examine your liver function connected with cancer. (During the early stages).
A stool examination to locate the traces of blood. (Early-stage).
Imaging tests and scans to check if cancer has propagated to other body regions. (Later stage).
Colonoscopy is one of the most effective ways to identify colon cancer. In this process, doctors put a narrow, flexible tube and a small camera inside your colon. This method helps them to notice problems and eliminate polyps before letting them grow into cancer.
Various Stages of Colon Cancer
Stage Zero- In this stage, the polyps are yet to spread from their location. These polyps may be precancerous.
Stage One- Here, the cancer cells start entering the muscles. However, it stays within the boundaries of your colon.
Stage Two- This stage determines the extent to which cancer has spread beyond the layers of the colon.
Stage Three- In this case, cancer has propagated to the nearby organs and lymph nodes.
Stage Four- Cancer spreads in different body parts, including the lungs and liver.
Choose Screening, Keep Living
Screen the City meets your need to bear the cost of colonoscopy screening in OKC. For patients over 50 years of age, an insurance provider can cover the charges of obtaining a much-needed colorectal screening. Less Risk. More Ease. Learn more!
**Disclaimer: This blog content does not intend to offer a doctor’s advice and mentions no relationship between any patient and the care provider.