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9 common symptoms of colorectal cancer

9 common symptoms of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is an umbrella term for cancers affecting the colon and rectum. The colon (large intestine) and rectum are vital parts of the digestive system, where the body processes food and eliminates waste matter. Colorectal cancer is generally called colon cancer and is more commonly seen in older adults. While the condition can be managed well, it must be diagnosed early. Here’s a closer look at colorectal cancer and its symptoms.

What is colorectal cancer?
When abnormal cells in the colon or rectum multiply and grow out of control, they can form a tumor. Over time, these cancer cells can also spread to other body parts if not treated, leading to complications. Colorectal cancer often begins as small growths called polyps on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. These polyps are not always cancerous and may not even trigger symptoms. However, if left untreated, the polyps may become a life-threatening tumor.

Symptoms of colorectal cancer
The following are a few symptoms of the condition that should not be ignored. Those who experience these should visit a healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance:

Changes in bowel habits
One of the most common early signs of colorectal cancer is a noticeable change in bowel habits. Individuals may experience persistent diarrhea, constipation, or alternating episodes of both. This change persists over a few weeks and is often accompanied by a feeling of incomplete excretion.

Blood in the stool
Another alarming sign is red or tarry stools that result from the presence of blood. This symptom may also arise due to other health conditions, but it should never be ignored. The expert may suggest relevant tests to determine the cause of blood in the stool.

Change in stool consistency
Colorectal cancer can lead to changes in the consistency of stools. One’s stools may become narrower or thinner due to a partial blockage in the colon. This symptom can also occur due to a benign stomach infection or food sensitivity. Nevertheless, it should be taken seriously.

Unexplained fatigue
Persistent fatigue without lifestyle changes can be a symptom of colorectal cancer. Fatigue is a common indicator of many diseases. But when unexplained, persistent, and associated with other symptoms, it should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Abdominal discomfort
Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, pain, or a feeling of fullness, especially in the lower abdomen, can be a symptom of colorectal cancer. The discomfort may be mild at first but can progress over time. Moreover, it may not heal with home remedies.

Weakness and anemia
Anemia, characterized by a decrease in red blood cells, can result from chronic bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to weakness, paleness, and shortness of breath.

Unexplained bowel urges
Frequent urges to have a bowel movement, even after one has just occurred, may indicate an issue in the colon or rectum. These bowel urges can interfere with one’s performance in outdoor activities.

Nausea and vomiting
In some cases, colorectal cancer can cause nausea and vomiting, mainly if it obstructs the colon.

Unexplained pain
Pain in the abdomen or rectum that is persistent and unrelated to other known conditions should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

It is important to note that these symptoms may vary from person to person and can also be attributed to other less severe conditions. Nevertheless, anyone experiencing one or more of these signs should consult a healthcare professional promptly, especially if they persist for a long time.

What causes colorectal cancer?
Experts say colorectal cancer develops mainly due to gene mutations in one’s colon or rectum. People with a family history of the condition are more likely to develop the disease. Certain lifestyle choices may also heighten one’s risk; for example, eating excessive red and processed meat, unhealthy eating habits, or a lack of exercise. Furthermore, the risk is high in those suffering from stomach-related conditions like chronic ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s colitis, Lynch syndrome, and familial adenomatous polyposis.

How is the condition detected and treated?
Individuals, especially those with a higher risk, should go for routine screenings even if they do not show any visible signs of colon cancer. This can help in the early detection of precancerous polyps that could turn cancerous. Screening or diagnostic tests for colorectal cancer include colonoscopy, CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, biopsy, ultrasound, X-rays, and blood tests. If the cancer is detected, several treatments can help manage it. Some standard options include colectomy, surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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MAC lung disease – 8 common signs and management options

MAC is a group of pathogens known as Mycobacterium Avium Complex or nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) found in the environment. They infect the lungs and lead to MAC lung disease, which is of two types: one type causes the development of nodules in the lungs and is called nodular disease, and the second type affects the cavities in the upper parts of the lung and is called upper lobe cavitary disease. Here are some of the common signs of MAC lung disease and how to manage them: Common signs of MAC lung disease The signs of MAC lung disease differ on a case-to-case basis. In most cases, the symptoms are generally nonspecific. Also, some may experience mild symptoms, or the signs may be nonexistent. As a result, there is often a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Some people have mild or unnoticeable symptoms. When the symptoms do occur, one may experience the following: Disruption in lung function When the NTM pathogens accumulate in the lungs' cavities, they can create a hole in the lung tissue. This can cause pain in the chest. In addition, a person may experience persistent wheezing and coughing. In some cases, the coughing is accompanied by bouts of breathlessness. There might be blood or mucus expelled during a coughing fit. Severe fatigue As MAC infection progresses, it can make a person feel severe fatigue over time. One may feel like they have been drained of all energy. This generally happens due to breathlessness and severe coughing. There can be low oxygen levels, which may make one feel extremely tired with enough rest. Sometimes, the exhaustion is so severe that a person cannot carry out daily activities. Stomach issues One experiences stomach issues when a person has a disseminated MAC infection. This happens when the infection spreads to other body parts beyond the lung. As a result, one may experience frequent bouts of diarrhea and constant abdomen pain. Also, there can be a loss of appetite accompanied by a decreasing sense of hunger. Swollen lymph nodes The job of lymph nodes is to transport white blood cells all over the body. These lymph nodes swell up when the body tries to fight germs and infections. In the case of MAC lung disease, the lymph nodes in the neck become swollen. This is known as cervical lymphadenitis. This symptom is rarely observed in adults but is common in young kids. Flu-like symptoms Most infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and other germs have similar symptoms. So, MAC lung disease may also make one experience flu-like symptoms. There can be a high fever as the body temperature increases, with an overactive immune system fighting off the infection. For the same reason, one may also experience muscle aches, body pain, and chills. Night sweats Some people with MAC infections experience severe sweating during the night compared to the daytime. This generally happens when the infection causes a high-grade fever. Sometimes, sweating is so extreme that one may wake up drenched in the middle of the night. Anemia A significant disseminated MAC lung disease symptom is a low red blood cell count. One of the reasons why this happens is that the body finds it difficult to use iron to create sufficient levels of red blood cells when there are recurring and ongoing infections due to germs such as NTM. This triggers anemia. Skin issues Due to MAC lung disease, a person may experience several skin problems. For instance, sores might develop on the lower limbs, feet, and other body parts. In addition, the skin around the sores may be painful and appear reddish or purplish. In severe cases, the sores turn into ulcers or open wounds. This generally happens in the case of untreated disseminated MAC lung disease. How to manage the signs and symptoms of MAC lung disease A pulmonary specialist or infectious disease expert will prescribe specific treatment options to manage the signs of MAC lung disease. These options are devised based on one’s overall health and the severity of the symptoms. In addition, the type of MAC infection is also taken into consideration. Doctors usually monitor symptoms before starting the treatment. Here are some ways to manage and treat MAC lung disease: Airway clearance therapies With this therapy, sputum and bacteria are cleared from the lungs. These usually involve different types of breathing treatments. Surgery If the symptoms are too severe to be treated, surgery is done to remove a part of the infected lung. Moderate-intensity exercises These involve chest and breathing techniques, chest percussions to loosen mucus, controlled coughing, and postural drainage or positions to drain mucus out of the lungs. These are done to clear the airways under the guidance of a respiratory therapist. Balanced meals A nutrition specialist can help draw up meal plans that can aid in fighting off the infection. These meal plans include foods that relieve symptoms, strengthen the immune system, and help with general well-being.

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