Colon cancer treatment often involves a combination of therapies to destroy cancer cells while protecting overall health. Each person’s treatment plan differs and depends on several factors. Though colon cancer treatment can seem complicated and overwhelming, understanding what to expect can help patients feel more at ease and make informed decisions about their health.
Before treatment begins, doctors perform tests to determine the stage of cancer. Staging helps identify how far the cancer has spread and which treatments will be most effective. Common tests include colonoscopies, CT scans, MRIs, and blood tests. A biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes, depending on the characteristics of the cancer, this staging is revised after surgery.
Stages of colon cancer range from Stage 0, where abnormal cells are found in the inner lining of the colon, to Stage IV, where cancer has spread to other organs. Understanding the stage of cancer helps doctors create a treatment plan that offers the best chance of success.
Surgery is often the first step in colon cancer treatment, especially for early-stage cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor along with a portion of the surrounding healthy tissue. In some cases, nearby lymph nodes are removed to check for cancer cells.
There are different types of surgery depending on the location and size of the tumor. A local excision removes small, early-stage tumors, while a colectomy removes part or all of the colon. If removing a section of the colon is necessary, the surgeon will reconnect the remaining parts. In some cases, a colostomy or ileostomy is necessary, creating an abdominal opening to allow waste to leave the body. This may be temporary or permanent, depending on the extent of the surgery. Recovery from surgery varies by patient. However, following the doctor’s instructions and attending follow-up appointments can help ensure proper healing.
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It may be given through an IV or taken as a pill. Chemotherapy can be used before surgery to shrink a tumor or after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer returning.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It is often used when the cancer is in the rectum or if surgery alone is not enough. Radiation may also be combined with chemotherapy for better results.
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may cause side effects such as nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and changes in appetite. Doctors work closely with patients to manage these effects and adjust treatment as necessary. Supportive care, including medications and lifestyle changes, can help improve comfort during treatment.
In addition to traditional treatments, some patients benefit from targeted therapy or immunotherapy. Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules in cancer cells to slow or stop their growth. It is often used when colon cancer does not respond to standard treatments.
Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. This type of treatment is more common for advanced-stage colon cancer. Not all patients are candidates for immunotherapy, so doctors perform tests to determine if it will be effective.
These therapies may have different side effects than chemotherapy, including skin rashes, high blood pressure, or digestive issues. Regular monitoring helps ensure the treatment is working while keeping side effects under control.
Side effects from colon cancer treatment can differ by patient. Some patients experience fatigue, digestive changes, or loss of appetite. However, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest can help manage these challenges.
Patients may feel stress, anxiety, or depression, but talking with a counselor, joining a support group, or leaning on friends and family can provide comfort and encouragement. Many cancer centers offer resources to help patients cope with the emotional impact of treatment.
Regular follow-up care is essential after treatment. Doctors monitor progress, check for signs of cancer returning, and help manage any long-term side effects. Staying informed and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support long-term recovery.
Colon cancer treatment involves different approaches depending on the stage and type of cancer. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and newer therapies all play a role in improving health and preventing cancer from returning. Understanding each step of treatment can help patients feel more prepared and supported as they move toward recovery.
Request an appointment here: https://lindenbergcancer.com or call Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center at (856) 475-0876 for an appointment in our Marlton office.
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