The colon, or large intestine, connects the small intestine to the rectum. It is responsible for the absorption of water and other nutrients, and the removal of waste. Some well agreed upon risk factors for colon cancer include age, family history of colon cancer, personal medical history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, smoking, alcohol, obesity, poor nutrition (high fat, low fibre) and lack of exercise.
What Are The Symptoms of Colon Cancer?
Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms: any changes in bowel habits (increased diarrhea or constipation), presence of blood or mucus, narrowing of stools, always feeling the need to have a bowel movement, abdominal pain or fullness, feeling a lump in the abdomen, and any changes in digestion, such as nausea or loss of appetite.
What Happens After a Colon Cancer Diagnosis?
Like other cancers, what your oncology team decides to do is based on the size and location of the tumour. Surgery is the primary treatment of choice, as the goal is to remove the entire tumour. The surgery may also include the removal of lymph nodes, a portion of the colon, and any cancerous tissue that has spread to nearby organs. Chemotherapy is usually recommended as well.
Complementary & Integrative Care of Colon Cancer
The goals of a holistic, integrative treatment plan for colon cancer include:
- introducing a highly anti-inflammatory nutrition plan;
- preventing and managing side effects of chemotherapy, such as neuropathy, nausea, and fatigue;
- managing side effects of radiation, such as diarrhea and pain with bowel movements;
- addressing addictive behavior, such as alcohol abuse or smoking;
- healing the gut and addressing food sensitivities;
- achieve a healthy body mass;
- implement physical activity to manage inflammation, increase strength and improve energy;
- optimize the immune system;
- prevent distant metastasis and recurrence;
- focus on long term microbiome health.
Call the clinic today at 403-202-7272 to get your personalized treatment plan.
