Colon Cancer Warning Signs and Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

Colon (or colorectal) cancer is the third most common cancer in adults.

Although it is treatable when caught early, it can be life-threatening if left untreated.
In fact, it’s the second leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women in the United States.
Colon cancer begins when cells in your large intestine start to grow abnormally.
These cells can form polyps, which can become cancerous (or malignant).
If this happens, they can spread to other parts of your body through lymphatic or blood vessels.
Colon cancer may also begin with colorectal adenoma or flat polyp, which is not considered malignant, but may eventually become so if it gets bigger or develops into a cancerous tumor or adenocarcinoma.

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the colon and rectum. It is the third most common type of cancer worldwide, and it usually develops slowly over several years.

The colon is part of the digestive system, and it plays a crucial role in the absorption of water and nutrients from the food we eat. Colon cancer occurs when cells in the lining of the colon or rectum start to grow abnormally and uncontrollably. Over time, these cells can form a mass of tissue called a tumor, which can spread to other parts of the body.

Some of the risk factors for colon cancer include age, a family history of the disease, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, a diet high in red or processed meat, a sedentary lifestyle, and smoking. Symptoms of colon cancer may include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss.

Early detection and treatment are key to improving the chances of survival from colon cancer. Screening tests such as colonoscopy can detect precancerous growths or early-stage colon cancer, allowing for prompt treatment. Treatment for colon cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these approaches.

RISK FACTORS

Most people who get colon cancer are over 50, but you can get it at any age.
If you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, you’re more likely to develop it.
You might also be at risk if you: have inflammatory intestinal conditions, eat a low-fiber, high-fat diet, have a sedentary lifestyle, have been diagnosed with diabetes or obesity, smoke or regularly consume alcohol.

SYMPTOMS
Colon cancer symptoms can differ from person to person, but there are a few common warning signs to look out for, such as: a persistent change in your bowel habits including diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool, bleeding from the rectum, or blood in your stool, persistent abdominal discomfort such as cramps, gas, or pain, a feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely, weakness or fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss with no apparent cause.
Now, there are a number of things that can cause these symptoms, and many people with colon cancer show no symptoms in the early stages of the disease.
When symptoms do appear, they can vary depending on the cancer’s size and location in the large intestine.
That’s why routine screening is so important!
It can detect and even prevent some colorectal cancers.

DETECTION
Your doctor will likely start with a rectal exam.
You may also have a COLONOSCOPY, which involves a flexible tube with a lighted tip inserted into your rectum that allows the doctor to see inside your colon.
Screening often requires a FECAL OCCULT BLOOD TEST as well, which helps detect hidden blood in the stool that’s often caused by colon polyps or tumors.
Your doctor may also order additional tests, such as: a CAT scan an imaging test that uses x-rays and a computer to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body, an ultrasound which uses sound waves to produce pictures that show the size, location, and shape of the tumor (if any), as well as abnormalities that may be present in surrounding tissues, and a biopsy during which they take out a small piece of tissue and check for cancer cells.

TREATMENT
Colon cancer treatments may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
The type of colon cancer treatment depends on the type of cancer cells found in the colon.

Colon cancer treatment depends on various factors such as the stage and location of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and their personal preferences. The most common treatments for colon cancer are:

Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for colon cancer, and it involves removing the cancerous part of the colon or rectum. The type of surgery depends on the stage and location of the cancer, and it can be performed either as an open surgery or a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often given after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, or it can be given before surgery to shrink the tumor. Chemotherapy can be given orally or through an IV.

Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with chemotherapy, or it can be given before surgery to shrink the tumor.

Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs to specifically target cancer cells. It is often used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that helps the immune system to identify and attack cancer cells. It is still relatively new and is currently being studied in clinical trials for colon cancer.

It is important to consult with a medical professional to determine the best treatment plan for an individual case of colon cancer.

PREVENTION

The good news is that you can take steps to reduce your risk of colon cancer by making
some lifestyle changes.
Do the following: eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; they contain
important vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, which may play a role in cancer prevention, drink alcohol in moderation, stop smoking, try to exercise at least 30 minutes every day, maintain a healthy weight.
The bottom line is, that it’s better to be safe than sorry.
So, do whatever you can to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer.
Make sure to get routine screening, and if you suspect you have it, don’t wait to talk to your doctor about it.
If you thought this article  offered some useful information, give it a like and share it out to friends.

Uses and Benefits Of Vicks VapoRub You Must Know

You most certainly know Vicks VapoRub, at least by sight.

It’s a classic over-the-counter ointment with active ingredients such as camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil.

This product has been widely used to treat coughs and colds for over a century.

But there are so many other things you can do with it!

In recent years, Vicks Vaporub has become even more popular with a seemingly endless list of uses.

Here are some of the best ways to use this magical ointment that will make you want to

keep a jar around!

Number 1 - Soothe Sore Muscles and Aching Joints.

The next time you wake up with sore muscles and painful joints, reach for Vicks Vaporub instead of painkillers and apply some directly to the affected area.

This treatment is especially helpful if you have been pushing your body hard during workouts or if you have been experiencing pain from an injury.

The menthol in the ointment helps to relax your muscles; while the camphor has a warming effect that helps reduce inflammation and stiffness.

Number 2 - Get Rid of Ingrown Hairs.

Ingrown hairs can be painful and annoying.

They can also lead to infections, so it’s best to treat them as soon as possible.

Applying Vicks to the affected area will prevent infection and help the hair grow out of the skin.

Its moisturizing properties also help soothe irritation and itching caused by ingrown hairs.

Number 3 - Treat Foot Fungus.

Foot fungus is a very common condition, and it’s one that many people don’t know how to treat.

It turns out, Vicks VapoRub is an easy way to get rid of this embarrassing problem!

This healing ointment has been used for many years as a treatment for athlete’s foot and toenail fungus, and that’s because it works!

It’s also been proven effective in treating other types of fungal infections as well, including ringworm and jock itch.

All you need to do is apply it twice a day for two weeks straight or until the infection clears up.

Number 4 - Fade Stretch Marks.

Stretch marks are indented streaks that appear on the skin’s surface and can be caused by rapid weight gain, pregnancy, excessive growth spurts, and other factors.

They’re usually found on the abdomen and thighs but can also appear on the arms, breasts, and buttocks.

The good news is that you can use Vicks VapoRub to help fade these marks.

Just rub a small amount into your skin twice a day after showering or bathing.

It will take some time for the stretch marks to fade, but it’s worth giving this simple remedy a try.

Number 5 - Train Your Cat.

If you have a cat, you know the struggle is real…

They are notorious for scratching furniture and spraying all over the place.

It can be a real pain but, it doesn’t have to be!

Vicks VapoRub can help keep pets away from your stuff.

So, if you’re having this issue, try applying some Vicks directly onto the area where your cat likes to scratch or urinate.

Alternatively, you can place a small amount of the ointment nearby.

The strong scent will help deter Kitty from those areas.

Number 6 - Heal Rough Skin On Your Heels.

Rough skin on the heels is an uncomfortable condition that can be painful AND embarrassing.

The good news is that you can get smooth heels by using Vicks Vaporub.

Its moisturizing properties make it an ideal treatment for dry skin.

Just rub a small amount onto the rough patches, put on some clean socks, and leave it on overnight.

You’ll wake up to softer, smoother feet.

Number 7 - Repel Mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes can be quite a nuisance.

They can make your summer fun a nightmare and spoil your outdoor activities.

But there is one thing that might help you with this problem: Vicks Vaporub.

Camphor, one of its active ingredients, has been used for centuries as a natural repellent against mosquitoes and other insects.

All you have to do is rub some Vicks on your skin before going outside!

The smell of the camphor will keep those pesky mosquitoes away or at least attract fewer of them.

This ointment can also be used to relieve itching from insect bites.

Apply some to the affected area and rub it in gently.

After a few minutes, you should feel relief from the itching and burning sensation.

Number 8 - Treat Acne Spots.

Acne is one of the most common skin problems that affects people of all ages.

It can leave behind marks and scars on your face, which may be difficult to get rid of.

Well, Vicks Vaporub is an excellent remedy to clear up your skin!

Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling, redness, and pain; while the camphor and eucalyptus content help eliminate bacteria.

This is a great option if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on expensive products.

Simply apply a small amount of Vicks to acne spots twice a day until they clear up.

Number 9 - Relieve Headaches.

Argh…You know the feeling.

You feel a headache coming on and try to ignore it, but it gets worse and worse until you can’t concentrate anymore.

It’s awful.

If you suffer from frequent headaches or migraines, Vicks Vaporub is a home remedy you should try.

The menthol in this product helps reduce inflammation and it also makes you feel more relaxed.

Apply a small amount directly onto your forehead, temples, and back of your neck.

Wait 20 minutes before reapplying if needed, or until the pain subsides.

Number 10 - Clear Up Minor Wounds and Scrapes.

If you’re looking for a replacement for Neosporin, Vicks Vaporub is your best bet!

It’s a topical antiseptic that can be used to treat minor scrapes and wounds.

The active ingredients work together to fight bacteria and help your skin heal faster.

The menthol also helps numb the pain and reduce swelling.

Just smear some Vicks on the affected area, apply a bandage, and let it work its magic.

Number 11 - Treat Dry Scalp.

If you have dry scalp, Vicks Vaporub can help.

It’s a natural cure for dandruff and other skin conditions that make your scalp itchy, flaky, and irritated.

Apply a bit of the ointment directly onto your scalp, gently massage it into your skin, and let it sit for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Then shampoo as usual.

If you want to get the full benefits of Vicks’ anti-inflammatory properties, you can also

leave it on your scalp overnight.

Number 12 - Silence A Squeaky Door.

One of the most annoying sounds in the world is a squeaky door.

This is especially true if you are trying to sleep.

Fortunately, there is an easy way to silence this noise.

All you need is some Vicks Vaporub!

Rub a small amount of the ointment on your door’s hinges.

This will act as a lubricant and keep them moving smoothly so that when you open and close the door, there won’t be any squeaks.

As you can see, Vicks Vaporub, an old favorite product of many households, still has a lot to offer today.

It’s such a multipurpose product, and its uses are so wonderful that you might wonder how you ever lived without it!

So, give it a try and if you happen to know of any other uses for Vicks that we left out, make sure to let us know in the comments below.