Determining Carcinoma Of The Colon

The human body is made up of a number of cells. These cells divide, grow and then eventually die in a predictable manner. When an error occurs within this system, a cancer is formed, causing an uncontrollable cell growth and division. The carcinoma of the colon is one such cancer that occurs in the cell line of the bowels.

When these cancer cells bulk together, they form a lump of extra tissue. This is called as a cancerous tumor. A colon cancer can be identified if these cancer cells are found to be existent in the colon. A carcinoma of the colon can grow for years without causing any symptoms. So it is advisable to get regular screenings of colon cancer. Though not recommended, if one is alert, one would be able to identify some of the colon cancer symptoms himself.

The first symptom that may alert an individual is constipation. Having a bowel movement for less than three times a week is an indicator. This could also be the body's way of telling that minor adjustments in diet and exercise are required. Nevertheless, it may also be a symptom of a carcinoma of the colon.

At the start of the colon, the waste material is slushy. This helps it in easily maneuvering around anything that comes in its way. However, as it nears the end of the colon, the stool starts to solidify. Thus, it turns the waste hard and less forgiving of obstacles. A cancer in the colon can make it very difficult for the waste material to get by, thus causing constipation. Thus, if constipation persists, it is best to get it checked by a specialist for bowel cancer.

Another important symptom that might alert a person having carcinoma of the colon is thin stools. As the stool starts taking shape, the tumor in the colon can act as an obstacle to squeeze the waste on its way out. This would make the stool thin.

The next symptom that an individual suffering from colon cancer may experience is in the form of stomach cramps. A tumor can cause a bowel obstruction. This acts as a road block in the colon. The severity of the cancer depends on the severity of the blockage. This blockage may prevent solids, liquids and gases from passing by. This would further lead to cramps in the abdomen that can be sharp. These pains can become even worse if the blockage restricts blood flow into the colon.

Determining the stage of the carcinoma of the colon is an important part of choosing an appropriate treatment. This simply means, the earlier the stage, the easier it is to treat the cancer. The most common treatment for later stages is surgery combined with radiation or chemotherapy. So go for a check up now!