As a former part-time staff at Masonicare, I have serviced many patients in their end-of-life and palliative care. The awesome team members that I had the pleasure of working with include nurses, social workers, hospice volunteers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, home health aides, chaplains, and an esteemed medical director, Dr Schwartz. Teaching, partnerships, and palliative care support were offered to the community-based members, hospitals, and skilled nursing homes as a team.
Through this experience, I learned the impact that a diagnosis of cancer can have on a person and their family. The benefits of palliative care include improved quality of life during treatment, improved ability to deal with emotions, increased connections to social support, and fewer hospitalizations. I am looking at the approach of the dying process as a normal part of life and helping loved ones cope with the process of anticipatory grief.
Based on the World Health Organization, colon cancer is the second most frequently occurring cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. Early detection and familiarization with the signs and symptoms of colon cancer can ensure quality of life for you and your loved one.
Keep a watchful eye out for:
Persistent Change in Bowel Habits: "Pay attention to any unusual patterns that persist for weeks."
Blood in Stool:" One of the most concerning symptoms, blood in the stool (hematochezia), can manifest as red or dark-colored blood. This may indicate due to the presence of cancerous growths."
Abdominal Discomfort: "Frequent abdominal pain, cramps, or discomfort, especially if they are persistent, can signal an underlying issue like colon cancer. It's essential not to dismiss such discomfort".
Unexplained Weight Loss: "If you are losing weight unintentionally without any dietary or lifestyle changes, it could be a sign of colon cancer or another health concern" (SK Hospital Trivandrum, 2024)
Advanced Symptoms: As colon cancer progresses, symptoms may become more pronounced and severe. These advanced symptoms require immediate attention and medical intervention:
Fatigue and Weakness: "Colon cancer can lead to anemia, which often results in persistent fatigue, weakness, and a general feeling of being unwell."
Nausea and Vomiting: "The presence of a tumor in the colon can obstruct normal digestive processes, leading to nausea, vomiting, and a decreased appetite."
Intestinal Obstruction: "A large tumor can block the colon, causing severe abdominal pain, bloating, and even vomiting. This is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment " ( SK Hospital Trivandrum, 2024).
Risk Factors and When to Seek Medical Attention: Age, family history, a diet high in red and processed meats, obesity, smoking, and certain genetic conditions can increase your risk. "If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, especially if they persist for an extended period or worsen, it's imperative to consult a medical professional for a thorough evaluation" ( SK Hospital Trivandrum, 2024).
Conclusion
"Colon cancer is a complex and serious disease that demands our attention and awareness. Knowledge is the first line of defense, and with it, we can make informed decisions to safeguard our health and well-being"( SK Hospital Trivandrum, 2024). Colonoscopy remains the gold standard method for screening. The screening recommendation by the American College of Gastroenterology is that every one of average risk should get screened for colon cancer at age 45.
References:
Anonymous. (2024). Understanding Colon Cancer: A Comprehensive Exploration of Symptoms. SK Hospital Trivandrum.
- "Veggies for fiber and polyphenols to feed your good bacteria, which then can protect you from pathogens."
- "Grains for fiber, vitamins, and minerals. "
- "Lentils for fiber and protein."
- "Nuts and seeds for healthy fat, protein, and fiber."
- "Virgin olive oil for healthy fat and polyphenols."
- Fish for protein and omega-3 fats ( Quirk, 2023).
Source: Quirk, M (2023). 6 Secret Lessons of Nutritional Psychiatry. Mood by Microbe Psychiatry