Colon cancer is a form of cancer that leads to the formation of malignant cells in the large intestine. Several factors contribute towards the development of this disease, including family history, excessive drinking, smoking cigarettes, obesity, and family history of Crohn’s disease that has lasted for more than eight years.

Let’s take a look at the signs and treatment options for colon cancer:

Symptoms of colon cancer:

• The list of initial signs and treatment options for colon cancer include keeping track of the change in bowel habits
• Presence of blood in the stool; it could either be red or dark red
• Continuous pain in the abdominal area
• Sudden weight loss
• Stools that are extremely loose or narrow
• Fatigue and sickness that continues to stay
• Constipation or diarrhea with a continuous urge to defecate even after passing stools
• Bloating, cramps, or pain due to gas should be noted, as it can help identify the early signs and treatment options for colon cancer

After the symptoms have been identified, you should know about the type and stage to figure out the treatment options for colon cancer.

Surgery
In this treatment option, the malignant part of the colon or whole of the colon is removed to prevent the spread of cancer. This methodology is also known as a colectomy. The surgeon can also opt for an endoscopy to draw out small, localized cancers. In this procedure, a thin and flexible tube fitted with a light and camera is inserted to remove cancerous tissues. Furthermore, laparoscopy is another type of surgery performed to prevent the spread. In this surgery, the surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen. The procedure is suitable when there are larger polyps in the colon. In the advanced-stage, palliative surgery is adopted where the doctor tries to relax any blockage present in the colon to manage pain and other symptoms.

Chemotherapy
This treatment involves the usage of medicines to destroy cancer cells, usually by hindering the process of cell division. The regimen consists of a number of cycles over a period of time. The procedure kills fast-growing cells in the body. It may include the ones which are healthy.

Radiation therapy
This treatment option involves the usage of strong energy sources, like X-rays, to destroy malignant cells. Additionally, the therapy is also used to reduce large cancer before surgery so that cancer can be removed successfully.

Immunotherapy
The treatment requires the usage of medicines that boost the immune system to fight off cancer. This procedure is generally used in the advanced stages of cancer.

These signs and treatment options of colon cancer can help you get a grip on the disease and prevent its advancement.