Bowel Cancer Symptoms and treatment

Bowel cancer can occur at any age, but is more common among individuals aged 60 and above. Bowel cancer is also known as colorectal cancer. It affects the large bowel and rectum. In rare scenarios, cancer of the small bowl is also possible.

The large bowel is also known as the colon. It comprises the last section of the digestive system. The longer and thinner part of the bowel is referred as the small bowel. Food consumed passes through the small bowl. Here the nutrients are absorbed. Food waste is then transported to the large bowel where the feces collect before it is eliminated through the anus. There are many bowel cancer symptoms.

The large bowel comprises of three sections: ascending, transverse, and descending. The place where the feces collect before it passes through the anus is also known as the rectum.

Cancers of the large bowel develop from small and benign growths of tissue known as polyps. These extend from the lining of the wall of the bowel. In some cases, polyps become cancerous over a period of time. The cancer needs to be treated on time. Otherwise, it can grow the bowel walls and spread to other body parts.

Bowel Cancer Symptoms

Bowel cancer is relatively painless, especially in the early stages. However, the bowel cancer symptoms can be extremely disrupting.

1. Feces contain small traces of blood. This may be mixed with the feces or may appear as flecks on the surface. The blood is visible in the toilet or on toilet paper. To determine the presence of blood look into the toilet before flushing.

2. Changes in the bowel habits for numerous weeks. Visiting the toilet frequently or having bouts of diarrhea are common.

3. Weight loss with no exact cause and loss of appetite

4. Tiredness and fatigue for no obvious reasons. This may be due to the small amount of blood loss through the bowel, causing anemia. Anemia is characterized by low levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin.

5. Stomach ache or swelling in the abdomen

These symptoms are not restricted to bowel cancer. However, bowel cancer symptoms cannot be ignored. Detecting the disease on time will help in better cure.

Causes of Bowl Cancer

The exact causes of bowel cancer are not known. Age is a main factor in the development of bowel cancer. Nearly 80% of those having bowel cancer are aged over 60.

The chances of developing bowel cancer increases with the following:

1. A family history of bowel cancer

2. Familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer are two inherited bowel conditions that increase the risk

3. Bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis

4. A diet low in fiber, fruits, and vegetables but high in processed meats

5. Obesity and sedentary lifestyle

6. Diabetes