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Summary: 4 Possible Colon Cancer Symptoms Colon cancer (also known as bowel cancer or colorectal cancer) is any cancer that affects the last section of the digestive tract (usually the colon or rectum). There are a number of symptoms which could indicate that you have bowel cancer. Unlike other conditions where the symptoms are often clear and easy to identify, colon cancer symptoms are usually vague and more difficult to spot. As the cancer becomes more advanced and the tumor grows, the symptoms become more noticeable. 1) BLOOD IN THE STOOLS OR RECTAL BLEEDING: - This is probably the number one symptom of colon cancer. With this type of cancer the tumor develops in the final section of the digestive tract. 2) PAIN IN THE STOMACH: - If the tumor gets large enough it can cause a blockage in your colon. Although stomach pains are associated with multiple conditions, any prolonged pains could be indicative of colon cancer. If you experience these pains for an extended period go and see your doctor right away. 3) DIFFERENT BOWEL MOVEMENTS: - If the tumor becomes large it can also have an impact on your bowel movements. The blockage created by a large tumour can prevent stools from passing through the colon leading to constipation (difficulty passing stools). If you notice any unusual bowel movements, particularly for long periods, this could be a sign of colorectal cancer and you should consult your doctor. 4) UNEXPECTED WEIGHT LOSS: - Sometimes tumors release chemicals which increase your metabolism and cause you to burn more calories than usual. Even if the weight loss is not linked to cancer it is still advisable to see your doctor because any weight loss that you cannot account for is likely to have some underlying cause. As you can see from this article the symptoms of colon cancer are not always obvious and easy to identify. Bowel cancer is much more treatable if it is caught in the early stages so if you notice any of the above symptoms do not take any chances. Colon cancer is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor. Summary: What are Colonic Polyps? Colonic polyps are linings of mucosa which form a mushroom shape. A colonic polyp that has a stalk is known as "pendulated", and ones with no stalk are called "sessile". Colonic polyps, as their name suggests, are found in the colon. Usually, these polyps are benign but do have the potential to become more serious and malignant if left unchecked. There are four different types of polyps: metaplastic, hamartomatous, inflammatory, and neoplastic. *Metaplastic polyps - Occur when a change of the cells of the epithelia takes place. These are a tissue overgrowth of normal mucosa and are the most common type of colonic polyp. *Hamartomatous polyps - Growths due to faulty development which are found in organs. *Inflammatory polyp - Associated with inflammatory conditions like Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis. *Neoplastic polyp - A tissue containing cells which have lost their normal differentiation. These can be both benign and malignant growths. When these occur in the bowel, they are called adenomas or tumors of glandular tissue or columnar cells. They can also be broken down even further Ingo villous, tubular, or tubular villous. Regular monitoring through colonoscopy procedures is needed to track the progress. Severe cases can be treated with colonic resection. You may copy / distribute / edit but keep this link below live : Article 1: 4 POSSIBLE COLON CANCER SYMPTOMS Article 2: WHAT ARE COLONIC POLYPS? Category : COLON RECTAL CANCER Source : CANCER.TIPSTIMES.COM Licensed : CREATIVE COMMONS SHARE ALIKE 3.0
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