Colorectal Cancer Alert - Changes in Bowel Habits, Bloody Stools, Abdominal Pain

Colorectal cancer, due to tumors growing within the intestinal lumen, can alter a patient's bowel habits. If the tumor grows large, it can lead to more serious conditions like intestinal blockage, making changes in bowel habits a potential symptom for those with colorectal cancer. The tumor's fragile structure compared to normal intestinal mucosa makes it prone to bleeding, possibly leading to bloody stools or unexplained anemia. As tumors grow larger, they may invade surrounding abdominal tissues, causing pain. In more severe cases, patients might even be able to feel a hard mass in their abdomen. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek further examination promptly.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Methods: Colonoscopy + CT Scan

The standard method for diagnosing colorectal cancer involves a colonoscopy. After bowel preparation, an endoscope is inserted through the anus to thoroughly examine the intestines. If there's a malignant tumor, it can be 100% seen under colonoscopy. Additionally, based on the patient's symptoms or physical condition, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, inability to eat, or prepare for a colonoscopy, a CT scan may be performed instead. Both colonoscopy and CT scans are primary tools for diagnosing colorectal cancer.

Key Questions to Ask Your Doctor Upon Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis

If a patient's colonoscopy and pathology report confirm colorectal cancer, doctors usually arrange further systemic examinations, including tumor markers, a full-body CT scan, electrocardiogram, and X-rays. These tests aim to determine the tumor's invasion range and severity within the patient, which are crucial for staging the cancer and deciding on treatment approaches. Patients should discuss the following questions with their doctor: Where is the tumor located? What treatment options are available? After evaluation, what stage is my cancer? Is there any distant metastasis? Is surgery required?

Colorectal cancer surgery requires general anesthesia, which involves risks, especially for patients with pre-existing medical conditions. Besides discussing surgical options with your doctor, it's also important to inquire if your health condition is suitable for general anesthesia.

Strong Recommendation: Regular Colorectal Cancer Screenings, Even Without Symptoms

Clinically, most patients seek diagnosis after symptoms appear. These patients often belong to higher stages, indicating more severe conditions. Therefore, I strongly encourage the public to participate in the biennial colorectal cancer screenings (fecal occult blood tests) provided by the National Health Administration, even without symptoms. This can significantly increase the chances of early detection and treatment, leading to better prognoses.