Distinctive character of pain in bowel cancer. How quickly a person develops bowel cancer Bowel cancer symptoms in men prognosis

Malignant bowel disease is characterized by smoothing symptoms in the initial periods, which intensifies as the disease develops.
The only sign that manifests itself almost at the beginning of the development of pathology is pain. The intensity and frequency of pain will directly depend on the area of ​​localization and the stage of the disease.

Colon cancer is a lesion of the tissue of this organ by malignant cells, in which healthy tissues are replaced by fibrous. The concept of bowel cancer includes several types of this pathology, which differ in the place of their localization. In most cases, the large intestine is affected. This disease is most often diagnosed in men.

General symptoms

Regardless of the location of the lesion, the pathology is manifested by a certain group of general symptoms. These include:

• soreness in the abdomen. The intensity and localization will depend on the affected area;
• frequent alternation of constipation and diarrhea. In this case, constipation can last up to several days;
• violation of peristalsis of the intestinal wall;
• the appearance in the feces of secretions of a different nature, including blood
• deterioration in general well-being;
• temperature rise to subfebrile units;
• sudden weight loss;
• localized swelling in the abdomen, on palpation of which, a cancerous formation is detected;
• full bowel sensations, even after emptying it;
• nausea or vomiting;
• constant weakness and drowsiness;
• regular bloating and gas formation;
• constant feeling of fullness even after emptying it.

Kinds

Depending on the localization and clinical presentation of manifestations, several types of bowel cancer are distinguished:

1. Adenocarcinoma. It is formed in the glandular tissues of this organ, with the formation of an increased amount of mucus, which accumulates in small foci on the walls of the intestine. Differs in various degrees of differentiation. Moreover, the lower the degree of differentiation, the more malignant the nature of this type of tumor.
2. Squamous. Most often occurs due to human papillomavirus infection, and mainly affects the tissues of the rectum in its lower section. Squamous cell carcinoma has a high rate of metastasis.
3. Crico-cellular. It is diagnosed in 4% of all malignant lesions of the intestine. It is distinguished by an atypical shape of the cell, which has a lumen in its center. This species is one of the most aggressive and difficult to treat. In general, most patients die within 3 years of treatment.
4. Colloidal. It is localized in the mucous tissue of the organ and, with growth, gradually closes its lumen. This type is characterized by late symptoms and a favorable prognosis of treatment.

When determining forms that are not amenable to standard differentiation, the following classification is used, according to which 3 types of tumors are distinguished:

1. Exophytic. Characterized by the germination of neoplasms in the intestinal lumen. Most often, they are manifested by early symptoms, which are formed due to the narrowing of the internal space of the organ and the decay of malignant tissue.
2. Endophytic. This type of tumor tends to grow along the entire length of the intestinal walls and go beyond this organ, affecting the surrounding tissues. Often, this form of tumors is characterized by a late onset of symptoms.
3. Mixed. They include all the characteristics of malignant tumors with endophytic and exophytic types of development.

Feelings at different stages

Painful manifestations are the primary sign of pathology, which may not be detected at first. But as you move from one stage to another, the pain will only increase.

Zero stage

At this stage of the disease, cancer cells are just beginning their active division. The minimum size of education is practically does not cause tissue damage and functional changes. As a result, the zero stage is not actually manifested by any symptoms, including pain.

In isolated cases, there is a slight discomfort with bowel movements. As the formation grows, the discomfort intensifies and gradually turns into implicit pain sensations that do not have a specific localization.

First stage

The first stage is characterized by the active growth of the tumor in the mucosa, which makes it difficult to work motor-evacuation function of the intestine. As a result, when the muscles contract, there are unexpressed painful sensations.

As a rule, they are localized only in one anatomical region of the abdomen and occur with the urge to empty. After defecation, the pain completely disappears. With an increase in swelling, discomfort and soreness become more pronounced, acquiring a dull character.

These manifestations throughout the development of the pathology are accompanied by a constant feeling of heaviness in the abdomen.

Second stage

Since the tumor in the second stage affects about half of the intestinal wall and partially blocks its lumen, the symptoms diseases are on the rise. Pain accompanies the patient constantly, taking aching character.

After emptying, its intensity temporarily decreases, but does not disappear completely. As a rule, it extends to the entire abdomen, including the epigastric region. As a result, cancer is often confused with gastritis, pancreatitis, colitis, or other pathology of the intestines and stomach.

Third stage

With the growth of a neoplasm in the shell of the walls of the organ and the overlap of the main volume of the lumen, there is persistent sensation of a foreign body in one of his areas. It is accompanied by constant dull pain, which is explained by damage to the nerve endings of the organ membrane.

Pain, at the time of bowel movement, takes on the character spasmodic or cramping. Most often, it gives to the lower back or sacrum. At later stages of this stage, painful sensations cover the perineum and coccyx.

Depending on the location of the tumor, they may have different frequency and intensity.

Fourth stage

The last stage is characterized by regular pains of an acute nature, especially manifesting itself in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bsecondary tumor growth. As a rule, soreness does not disappear even after taking high doses of strong analgesic drugs.

Most often, metastasis is abdominal wall and urinary system. Therefore, painful sensations during urination or when the muscles of the abdominal wall are tense join the main pains.

Dependence on localization

The intensity and appearance of painful sensations depends not only on the stage of the disease, but also on the site of localization. As a rule, this symptom with a lesion left side significantly different from the painful manifestations of a tumor on the right, or in rectum.

Right side of intestine

With the defeat of the right side, the pain is diagnosed in the early stages, 3 times more often than in the formation of a tumor in the left area of ​​the intestine. This is due to the structure of this organ and the violation of the motor functions of its walls.

As a result of dysfunction of peristalsis, a pendulum constantly moves the contents of the organ. Most often, in this case, aching severe pain appears, spreading along the entire side of the organ.

At the same time, severe pain anterior wall muscles due to its stress. With the localization of a malignant neoplasm in the colon, the patient is tormented dull constant pain radiating to the right abdomen.

If the tumor is localized on the walls of the caecum, then there are spasmodic pains that occur during contractions of the intestinal walls, which push the stool through an excessively narrowed lumen.

In the last stages, pain is aggravated by perifocal and intratumoral inflammation, in which pathogenic tissues decay.

Left half of the large intestine

The growth of a malignant formation in the left half of the intestine is characterized by the late onset of pain. Most often, it occurs already with a lesion shells of the organ. As a rule, dull temporary pain, limited localization, is manifested.

Most often, its appearance or increasing intensity is associated with the process of bowel movement. In the future, the pain intensifies due to the defeat of others tissues and adjacent organs.

Rectum

The appearance of a neoplasm on the rectum is most often characterized by early symptoms. When the tumor is localized in the area anal canal, painful sensations appear almost immediately, since its surface has many nerve endings.

They are wearing dumb character, and increase during bowel movements. Depending on the stage, they may be both temporary and permanent. At the same time, impurities of mucus or blood can be seen in the feces.

If the neoplasm grows in the area of ​​​​the ampulla of the direct section, the first sign will be a violation of the functioning of the organ, and at a later date there will be a slight and rarely occurring pain.

In the case of localization of cancer in the department of transition to the sigmoid colon, an obstruction is formed, which is accompanied by severe sharp pains, not stopping even potent analgesics.

In this video, a short story by a doctor about the symptoms of bowel cancer:

If you find an error, please highlight a piece of text and click Ctrl+Enter.

One of the most common causes leading a person to a premature end of life is oncological diseases, especially bowel cancer. The progression of pathology often leads to a sad outcome, which is why it is so important to identify and recognize the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer in the early stages.

How the disease manifests itself, whether it is treated, what causes bowel cancer - questions of concern to society, which has become a victim of modern times, with malnutrition, a passive rhythm of life, with the development of a large number of precancerous diseases.

The main causes of cancer development

Intestinal cancer is characterized by the occurrence of malignant neoplasms on the internal, mucous walls of the intestine, in the future, if left untreated, it grows into nearby tissues and organs. The disease affects mainly adults 45-70 years old.

The group of patients most at risk of developing cancer are people with a genetic predisposition to the disease.

Experts call the main and first motive for the growth of malignant oncology the presence of precancerous pathologies in the intestine:

• Nonspecific ulcerative colitis;
• Polyposis of the mucous layer of the colon;
• Chronic paraproctitis;
• Benign tumors: lipomas, adenomas, angiomas, etc.

Cancer can affect absolutely any organ in the human body, but the key to our health is in the intestines - that is why one of the first causes of the development of severe cancer is malnutrition, the nature of the food consumed.

Consumption of foods low in fiber, and a large amount of preservatives, animal fats, alcohol abuse, spicy, fatty foods - increases the risk of tumors.

Secondary causes of bowel cancer:

• Dysbacteriosis, accompanied by frequent and painful constipation;
• Deficiency in the body of enzymes, useful trace elements, vitamins.
• Overwork due to physical, mental stress, depression, lack of interest in life, stress;
• Smoking, frequent alcohol consumption.

Video:

Clinical manifestations of the disease

It is very difficult to determine the disease at an early stage, due to the lack of characteristic signs and symptoms that are characteristic of bowel cancer.

Reason for excitement and a visit to a therapist, proctologist, the oncologist should be the following signs:

1. Pain in the right or left side of the abdomen;
2. Unmotivated weight loss;
3. Nausea, vomiting;
4. Feeling of heaviness, fullness of the abdomen even after emptying;
5. Frequent intestinal disorders:, diarrhea, constipation.

The first signs of bowel cancer are washed away and often confused with other diseases of the digestive tract. Complaints of the patient, the above symptoms should be supplemented by appropriate tests, diagnostic examinations.

Timely actions will help to recognize the manifestation of the disease at an early, first stage, which in the future can give a positive result of treatment.

The intestine is divided into two segments: thin and thick, which in turn include other departments. Cancer concerns in most cases the small, colon, rectum. The disease in different places of the intestine manifests itself in its own way, so it is advisable to consider its first manifestations, symptoms and signs individually.

Signs of small intestine cancer

Tumors in the small intestine are benign and malignant, and are less common than in the large intestine. The first signs of advanced cancer are:

• Anemia;
• Unreasonable weight loss;
• Weakness, apathy;
• intestinal bleeding;

In the absence of specific symptoms and signs characteristic of small intestine cancer, detection of the disease at an early stage is achievable only through instrumental examinations.

Colon Cancer Symptoms

The manifestation of colon cancer is due to the location of the tumor, size, aggravation of the condition. The first signs of early cancer are:

• Discomfort in the intestines - manifested by a feeling of heaviness, lightheadedness, belching.
• In many cancer patients, such a symptom as bloody, purulent discharge is manifested.
• High temperature, weakness, anemia are symptoms and signs of a failure of the patient's general well-being caused by intoxication.
• At an early stage, pain in the abdomen is pulling, aching. The progression of the disease brings cramping, intense pain, indicating a complete or partial induction of the movement of the contents through the intestines.
• Intestinal upset manifests itself as flatulence, severe distension of the abdomen.

Symptoms of colon cancer subdivided into six forms:

• Symptoms of toxic - anemic form.

The first signs of this form of cancer are: excessive fatigue, body temperature is kept within 37-37.5 ºС, fading of the skin, anemia. Anemia indicates that the cancer is developing rapidly.

• The form is enterocolitic.

This form of cancer is similar in its symptoms to inflammatory and infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Manifested by obvious disorders of the intestine: bloating, seething in the abdomen, difficulty emptying, diarrhea. The nature of the pain is aching. The stool contains blood.

• Symptoms of dyspeptic form.

Symptoms of this form are not characteristic of cancer, they are observed as signs of many other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. With dyspeptic cancer, the upper abdomen hurts, nausea, vomiting, bloating in the stomach, loss of appetite are pronounced.

• Obstructive.

The first and main symptom of an obstructive form of cancer is intestinal obstruction, which is expressed by the irregular occurrence of such symptoms: difficulty in passing gases and feces, paroxysmal pain, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.

• Pseudo-inflammatory.

A form of cancer manifests itself as abdominal pain and fever. Such a frequent symptom as intestinal disorders is poorly expressed.

• tumor form.

A characteristic feature of this form is the absence or mild symptoms and signs. During a medical examination and diagnostic examination, cancer can be detected.

Symptoms of rectal cancer

The first significant symptoms of the disease appear even when the tumor has reached a large size. The severity of rectal cancer due to the location, size of the tumor, the level of development of the disease:

1. Pain in cancer is continuous, but this is not an early sign of the disease, on the contrary, such a symptom indicates the spread of the neoplasm and damage to adjacent organs and tissues.
2. An irreversible symptom is discharge from the anus during emptying. Feces with an admixture of dark blood state the fact that the tumor was injured by feces. The progressive development of cancer is determined by purulent, mucous secretions. Such a symptom indicates the beginning of the decay of the neoplasm, an infectious inflammation.
3. Early signs of rectal cancer are bowel disorders, alternating diarrhea with constipation and vice versa. Often there are tenesmus - the urge to empty, without a positive result. Instead of feces, only blood or mucus can be excreted.
4. The shape of feces in rectal cancer is ribbon-like, it turns out to be the first sign of this disease.
5. The growth of a cancerous tumor narrows the space of the intestine, then signs of intestinal obstruction appear: sharp pains, constipation, inability to pass gases, bloating, nausea.
6. Common symptoms of rectal cancer are: hyperthermia, gradual anemization, impotence, weight loss.

Cancer stages and prognosis

Colon cancer develops in four stages.

The international classification of the stages of development of cancerous tumors is TNM system. A brief and precise guide to the description of oncological disease, allowing you to get undistorted information. First component T- primary tumor second N- The lymph nodes, third M- Distant metastases. The numbers next to the letter indicate the degree of development of the disease.

The question - how long they live with such a pathology and after its treatment, does not have an exact answer. Life expectancy will depend on the stage of cancer at which treatment began, at what age the disease occurred, the presence of other pathologies in the patient, etc.

Five-year survival after radical surgery is 45-50% .

If treatment began at the first, second stage, the prognosis is much better and will be 85-95% survival. Cancer is curable in the third stage 65-70% . The most dangerous fourth stage leaves 35% chance to overcome the disease.

Diagnosis and treatment

The absence of characteristic symptoms characteristic of intestinal cancer indicates the need for additional examination methods in order to be able to detect the disease at an early, first stage.

The specialist should pay special attention to the patient's complaints regarding the characteristics of abdominal pain, uncontrolled weight loss, blanching of the skin. Based on the patient's complaints and the following research methods, there is a chance to detect the disease as early as possible and start treatment.

Treatment is only surgical, necessarily supplemented with chemotherapy. Preparation for surgery is aimed at complete cleansing of the intestines, through enemas, taking laxatives, and following a certain diet.

The operation involves resection of the tumor and regional lymph nodes, with the imposition of an anastomosis to restore intestinal patency. The choice of operating method is determined by the stage of cancer development, possible complications, metastases, age and general condition of the patient.

This disease, like a tumor of the stomach, significantly reduces the quality of human life. More often, the process affects the intestines in the area of ​​​​the hepatic and splenic flexures, where feces linger for a long time. In 40% of cases, cancer affects the caecum, in 25% - the sigmoid. Contribute to the development of pathology such background diseases as chronic constipation, polyposis.

The first signs of cancer

If the tumor is localized in the ampullary section of the intestine, then the pathology will manifest itself as the only symptom: impurities in the stool. When the process spreads to the rectosigmoid region, the patient will complain of progressive constipation and bloating on the left.

Symptoms of rectal cancer are similar to those of hemorrhoids, so it is important to differentiate these two diseases. When there are no mucous secretions, the blood is located on the surface of the feces, the feces do not lose their shape, and the temperature does not exceed normal numbers.

large intestine

Symptoms of colon cancer at an early stage may be absent.

As the carcinoma progresses, the following signs appear:

• soreness in the abdomen of a aching nature in a certain position of the body;
• bloating;
• stool disorder;
• blood and mucus in the stool;
• signs (repeated vomiting, aversion to food, lack of discharge of feces and gases);
• lack of appetite.

small intestine

At the beginning, a tumor of the small intestine is manifested by dyspeptic disorders:

• bloating;
• nausea and vomiting;
• pain in the epigastric region, which is spastic in nature. At the time of the development of the pain syndrome, the patient feels the taste of a “copper coin”.

Also, the first signs of carcinoma of this localization include:

• alternating constipation and diarrhea;
• tenesmus;
• signs of intestinal obstruction;
• pain during bowel movements.

sigmoid colon

In this case, the pathological process is localized above the rectum. The first signs of the disease are acute dyspeptic disorders. Also, the carcinoma of this area is characterized by the presence of such symptoms:

• tenesmus;
• pain during bowel movements;
• altered structure of feces, the appearance of pus, mucus and blood in them;
• urinary incontinence;
• fecal incontinence;
• violation of the formation of gases;
• rumbling in the stomach;
• belching with an unpleasant odor.

The first symptoms in women

What are the early signs of bowel cancer in women? The first signs of bowel cancer in women include:

• violation of the menstrual cycle;
• lack of appetite and weight loss;
• pain during bowel movements;
• the presence of blood in the urine and feces;
• violation of urination;
• aversion to fried and fatty foods.

However, one of the main manifestations that make it possible to suspect bowel cancer at an early stage in women is a symptom of the release of feces and gases through the urethra. It is caused by a tumor in the bladder.

If the tumor grows into the bladder, a message appears between it and the vagina. This leads to the release of stool and gases into the vagina. In this case, there is a risk of infection of the bladder, which leads to pyelonephritis.

The first symptoms in men

Symptoms of early-stage bowel cancer in men are:

• difficulty urinating due to the germination of the tumor in the prostate gland;
• diarrhea followed by constipation;
• sexual dysfunction;
• subfebrile body temperature;
• an admixture of mucus and blood in the feces;
• pain syndrome in the stomach;
• violation of reproductive function;
• bitterness in the mouth.

Colon cancer is a common and dangerous pathology. At the initial stages of the disease, the symptoms are presented only by general signs. The patient comes to the doctor only when pain or other changes occur in the digestive tract, when the process has reached stage 2 or 3.

It is important to diagnose the disease in time to improve the prognosis of treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to know the first symptoms of an intestinal tumor. More often they are represented by pain in the abdomen, dyspeptic symptoms and impurities in the feces. At the first appearance of these signs, it is necessary to visit a specialist as soon as possible.

Useful video about early signs of bowel cancer

Myth one. Colon cancer occurs only in older people, young people do not get sick with it.

According to statistics, the incidence of colorectal cancer increases with age, but even so, young people in their 20s and 30s can develop colon cancer. It is known that about 7% of cases of colorectal cancer occur in people under 50 years of age. Young people who have already had colorectal cancer have a much higher risk of developing a second malignant tumor of the intestine. Therefore, although colon cancer most often affects people over 50 years of age, it can also happen to younger people. And it should always be remembered that if this disease is detected at an early stage, it can be completely cured in more than 90% of cases.

Myth two. Colorectal cancer mostly affects men.

Don't believe it. Although there are diseases that predominantly affect men or women, colorectal cancer is not one of them. This disease is equally common in both men and women. Dear women, it is dangerous to think that only men get colon cancer. You need to know and be able to identify the main symptoms of this disease in the same way as you know the possible manifestations of breast or cervical cancer. It is necessary to include in regular examinations, along with mammography and vaginal smears, also special studies for the diagnosis of colorectal cancer.

Myth three. No one in my family has had colon cancer, so I'm not at risk.

So many people think that way, and it's so sad! Indeed, if a person has several family members of previous generations with colon cancer, this leads to a significant increase in the risk of disease in subsequent generations. However, it must be understood that about 80% of colorectal cancer patients do not have a family history of the disease. Let's forget about statistics for a moment and talk about real life. Any coloproctologist surgeon will confirm that a very large number of people in whom no one in the family has ever had colon cancer develop this disease and often go to the doctor already at an advanced stage. They were not examined, thinking that they did not need this examination, since no one in their family had such a disease. However, if it were possible to diagnose the disease at an early stage, it could be cured without a trace.

Myth four. If I feel good, I don't have to worry that I might have bowel cancer.

This is the most terrible myth of all. What do you think is the most common symptom of early stage colon cancer? Do you think it's blood in the stool or constipation? No. In fact, early-stage cancer does not manifest itself in any way, it does not have any special symptoms. People with early-stage colorectal cancer feel well, their condition does not change in any way compared to the usual state of health. Only when the tumor increases, it can make itself felt. Now it is believed that in an ordinary person, bowel cancer develops from polyps, which degenerate into a tumor for a long time. While this swelling is small, it does not cause pain or other symptoms. If a tumor is detected at an early stage, a person can be cured of cancer. It is not necessary to wait for the symptoms of the disease, it is better to undergo regular examinations while you feel well.

Myth five. Cancer always starts with blood in the stool.

There is some truth behind this myth. In all people, the appearance of blood in the stool causes fear. In most cases, bleeding from the rectum is associated with hemorrhoids. Yes, colon cancers can lead to bleeding from the rectum. However, its amount may be small and even invisible without a microscope. In some cases, with tumors of the intestine, there may be no blood in the stool at all. If there is bleeding, but it is imperceptible, then its manifestations may be increased fatigue, which is associated with anemia and a lack of iron in the blood. Anemia can only be detected by doing a general blood test, in which the number of red blood cells, hemoglobin content and hematocrit are counted. The appearance of blood in the stool is only one of the possible symptoms of a large colon cancer. Remember that small tumors at an early stage may not manifest themselves in any way (see myth four). With a large tumor, characteristic symptoms may appear (see table). Stool evacuation disorders may occur due to the fact that the tumor narrows the intestinal lumen, and the stool cannot pass through the narrowing site. In this case, a person may suffer from constipation, nausea, bloating, the shape of the stool may change - become ribbon-like, there may be a feeling of incomplete emptying of the intestine. In more advanced stages, there may be a decrease in appetite, unexplained weight loss. These symptoms occur due to the fact that, while growing and spreading, the tumor releases special substances into the blood. Therefore, if you have any of these symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Please don't let these myths get in the way of possibly saving your life or someone else's!

Colorectal Cancer Symptoms Assessment Sheet.

Like most people, you may not be comfortable discussing the functioning of your gut. However, you will have to change your views. Unless you yourself tell your doctor about unusual symptoms, such as a change in the shape of your stool, he or she will never know about it and probably won't even ask! Here is a summary of what to look out for.

Please don't be scared! Most of these symptoms occur in many people and are not associated with cancer. However, let your doctor decide.

• Changing the mode and nature of bowel emptying - one-time or chronic diarrhea or constipation, discomfort when emptying the bowel, a change in the shape of the stool (thin as a pencil, or thinner than usual), a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying.
• Unusual sensations associated with the intestines, such as - increased gas production, pain, nausea, bloating, a feeling of fullness in the intestines.
• Bleeding (light red or very dark blood in the stool).
• Constant fatigue.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Unexplained iron deficiency.
• unexplained anemia.

Intestinal cancer is a pathological condition characterized by malignant degeneration of the upper glandular layer of the epithelium. Such tumors are localized mainly in the rectum, colon and sigmoid parts of the intestine.

A special risk group for the development of such neoplasms includes people over 50 years of age. Young patients (under 25) account for no more than 7% of cases. This type of oncology occupies the 2nd place in the statistics of the prevalence of pathologies of this type. Bowel cancer is characterized by an unfavorable course.

Kinds

Depending on the morphological structure and degree of differentiation of malignantly degenerated tissues, the following types of oncological pathologies of the intestine are distinguished:

• adenocarcinoma;
• ring cell carcinoma;
• colloid tumor;
• squamous cell carcinoma;
• lymphoma;
• sarcomas;
• undifferentiated tumors.

These morphological types of tumors are more common in women. How bowel cancer proceeds depends on the nature of the growth of the malignant formation. According to this parameter, all types of tumors are divided into:

• endophytic;
• exophytic;
• mixed.

Photo of colon cancer

Malignant formations of the blind and right membranes of the intestine are distinguished by an exophytic type of growth, in which the tumor is directed into the lumen of this organ. In the elderly, this variant of the course of cancer occurs most often.

In most cases, the left half of the large intestine is affected by tumors that differ in the endophytic type of growth. Education in this case penetrates through the intestinal wall.

The mixed type of cancer growth is characterized by a strong narrowing of the lumen and deformation of the affected area. The tumor grows both in the intestinal lumen and inside the walls.

General symptoms

The clinical manifestations of bowel cancer are variable. Symptoms of the disease largely depend on the location and size of the formation. The first symptoms of bowel cancer are nonspecific, i.e., they cannot accurately determine the presence of oncological pathology.

First, toxic-anemic signs appear, which are considered symptoms of damage to the intestinal mucosa. This causes the formation of organ defects through which the infection penetrates, and harmful substances enter the blood through damaged capillaries, which leads to general intoxication of the body, expressed by such manifestations as:

• headache;
• fast fatiguability;
• aches and pains in the joints;
• anemia;
• loss of appetite;
• decrease in hemoglobin level;
• thickening of the blood;
• pallor of mucous membranes;
• leakage of blood into the stool.

Due to this set of symptoms, this disease can be easily confused with manifestations of poisoning, pathologies of the joints and upper respiratory tract.

In the future, as the malignant tumor grows in the large intestine, symptoms of inflammatory lesions of large areas of the mucous membranes of the organ may appear. In this case, the symptoms of general intoxication are supplemented by various disorders of intestinal function, including the following:

• increased body temperature (more than 38 ° C);
• bloating;
• increased gas formation;
• impurities of pus, blood or mucus in the stool.

When the tumor grows into the lumen, symptoms of intestinal obstruction begin to appear. Intestinal cancer can indicate stool disorders. Constipation cannot be eliminated even by the use of enemas and laxatives. The patient complains of heaviness in the abdomen and rumbling in the intestines with the progression of cancer.

Symptoms of the pathology are aggravated after eating, especially if it is difficult to digest. In the later stages of the pathological process, dyspeptic disorders increase. Constipation and diarrhea become a frequent occurrence, which indicates a violation of intestinal motility. In the later stages of intestinal oncology, persistent abdominal pain appears, which is aching in nature without a clear localization.

First signs

It is not possible to independently determine cancer even before the onset of severe symptoms. This is due to the fact that the signs of pathology are nonspecific and may indicate a number of other disorders. To determine the first symptoms of intestinal oncology at an early stage, it is advisable to use instrumental methods for visualizing the walls of the organ by probing or irradiation. The doctor suspects the development of an oncological process if the patient has the first signs of bowel cancer at an early stage, such as:

• change in color of feces to dark;
• general weakness;
• a slight but persistent increase in body temperature;
• progressive weight loss;
• pallor of the skin.

Cancer is often suspected when the patient complains of diarrhea or frequent constipation. In women, the formation of a tumor in the intestine may be accompanied by damage to the bladder and the occurrence of a pathological communication between the rectum and the vagina. This process is not accompanied by clear symptoms. In men, the appearance of a tumor in the intestine is indicated by difficulty urinating and signs of damage to the representative gland.

Causes

The etiology of cancer development has not yet been fully established. All the causes of this oncological disease can be divided into external and internal. The first category is nutrition.

A diet low in plant fiber and high in protein, fat, and easily digestible carbohydrates increases the risk of developing cancer. In addition, the use of products with a high content of:

• preservatives;
• dyes;
• emulsifiers;
• carcinogens, etc.

With the development of bowel cancer, the causes of the pathology can be rooted in inflammatory tissue damage and trauma to the mucous membranes while eating fish with small bones.

Violation of intestinal motility, which increases the duration of contact of harmful substances from products with mucous membranes, is often observed in people who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Prolonged exposure to the walls of carcinogens and toxins leads to malignant degeneration of tissues.

External factors contributing to the development of intestinal cancer include:

• bad ecology;
• smoking;
• frequent alcohol intake;
• work in hazardous industries;
• being in a state of emotional stress;
• physical overload.

There are also a number of internal factors that can create conditions for the appearance of such tumors. A special risk group includes people with a family history of cancer or polyposis. More often, the appearance of malignant tumors in the digestive tract is observed in people who suffer from genetic diseases such as:

• Gardner's syndrome;
• Lynch's disease;
• cystic fibrosis;
• adenomatous polyposis.

Internal factors that increase the risk of developing bowel cancer include various chronic inflammatory bowel pathologies, including:

• Crohn's disease;
• celiac disease;
• chronic ulcerative colitis;
• diabetes mellitus type 2.

In rare cases, malignant degeneration of intestinal tissues is promoted by lymphedema, i.e., stagnation of lymph as a result of damage to the elements of the lymphatic system.

stages

In bowel cancer, the stages of the pathological process are determined based on several parameters, including the intensity of growth of the primary tumor, the severity of symptoms, and the presence of metastases to distant organs. In medical practice, the classification that takes into account 4 stages of the oncological process is most often used. Some clinicians also distinguish stage 0, which is characterized by the presence of an accumulation of cells that have an atypical structure and the ability to rapidly divide.

At stage 1 of the pathological process, the malignant degeneration of the existing tumor begins, which is accompanied by its rapid increase in size. The formation has not yet left the walls of the affected area of ​​the intestine. Metastases in regional lymph nodes and any pain are not observed. During this period of cancer development, patients may occasionally show signs of a mild eating disorder. Conducting a colonoscopy at this stage of tumor formation allows you to identify it.

At stage 2, the malignant formation reaches a size of 2-5 cm. It grows to the entire depth of the intestinal wall. There are still no signs of the onset of tumor metastasis. The severity of disorders of the digestive system is aggravated. Any instrumental research methods allow to identify a neoplasm.

At stage 3 of the oncological process, there is an increase in the activity of cells that differ in an atypical structure. This leads to a rapid increase in the size of the existing tumor. It begins to go beyond the intestines, affecting nearby lymph nodes and internal organs. Symptoms of damage to the digestive tract becomes pronounced.

Stage 4 bowel cancer is considered the most dangerous. It is characterized by the rapid growth of tumor tissues and metastasis to distant organs. The severity of symptomatic manifestations of the pathological process becomes critical. In addition, the human body is poisoned by toxic substances that are released by the tumor. Increasing failures in the work of all body systems.

Metastases to other organs

In most cases, the liver is the first to metastasize. The patient develops signs of liver failure. The sclera of the eyes and skin become yellow, and the general condition worsens due to a violation of the process of removing harmful substances from the body. Metastases can affect tissues:

• peritoneum;
• lymph nodes;
• ovaries;
• adrenal glands;
• lungs;
• pancreas;
• Bladder.

Often, cancer cells from the intestines are carried by the bloodstream to the pelvic bones. This leads to the destruction of the latter. Such an unfavorable manifestation of cancer is most often observed in the later stages of the pathological process. In addition, the bones of the spine can also be affected.

Forecast

Malignant degeneration of the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract is an extremely dangerous disease, since it is rarely detected in the early stages of development. Survival prognosis for bowel cancer depends on many factors, including:

• from the timeliness of diagnosis;
• from the individual characteristics of the organism;
• from age;
• from the presence of concomitant pathologies;
• from living conditions;
• from the presence of bad habits;
• from stress, etc.

It is believed that the positive attitude of the patient improves the prognosis of survival and makes it easier to pass through all stages of treatment.

Diagnostic methods

Even specialists cannot always recognize bowel cancer only by the existing symptomatic manifestations. To make an accurate diagnosis, the patient needs a consultation with a proctologist and an oncologist. First of all, an external examination, physiological tests and anamnesis are carried out. If the tumor is close to the anus, a digital rectal examination may be required.

In addition, blood tests are often used to make an accurate diagnosis. When a tumor is found in the rectum or sigmoid colon, sigmoidoscopy is most commonly used. This research method involves the introduction of a special flexible tube into the anus, with which the mucous membrane is examined. In addition, irrigoscopy is often prescribed - the introduction of a contrast agent and an X-ray examination of the intestine.

Another informative way to diagnose cancer is a colonoscopy. During the procedure, the doctor can immediately take samples for further biopsy of the tumor tissue. To determine the localization of metastases, ultrasound of the abdominal organs, X-ray of the lungs and MRI are often prescribed. These studies allow to identify secondary tumors in distant organs. Diagnosis may require examination of the vagina using speculums. In the presence of manifestations of bladder damage, cystoscopy is performed.

Treatment

The main method of cancer therapy is the radical excision of the affected area and surrounding healthy tissues, regional lymph nodes and metastases. Colon cancer surgery is in most cases performed under general anesthesia through small incisions in the abdomen using a high-frequency knife. Traditional resection of the affected intestinal segment may be indicated. The choice of surgical intervention remains with the specialist.

Chemotherapy for bowel cancer is used as an additional method of therapy. It is used systemically before and after the operation. To eliminate the manifestations of this disease, cytostatic drugs are used. These include:

• 5-fluorouracil;
• Oxaliplatin;
• capecitabine;
• Irinotecan, etc.

Local injections of these drugs into the vessels feeding the metastases may be indicated. To enhance the effect of chemotherapy, immunocorrectors are often used, including interferons, stimulants of cellular and humoral immunity.

Treatment of bowel cancer with radiation therapy can be used before and after surgery. The use of ionizing radiation can stop the growth of tumors and metastases. Often this method of treatment helps to achieve a pronounced remission in patients who are contraindicated in the use of surgical methods of therapy. In addition, vitamins and dietary supplements are introduced into the treatment regimen.

During the entire period of treatment, patients are advised to follow a special diet. You should avoid eating spicy and fried foods, as well as foods that can provoke bloating. The diet should include foods high in protein, vitamins and minerals. Dishes are steamed or boiled. Food must be taken in a grated form. Portions should be small. The number of meals should be 5-6 times a day. You need to drink at least 2 liters of water per day.

How long do they live after surgery

No specialist can indicate the exact life expectancy of patients after the surgical intervention, since this largely depends on the individual characteristics of the patient's body. When performing a resection, which involves cutting the abdomen, they live less after the operation. This is associated with a high risk of complications.

Minimally invasive bowel cancer surgeries are better tolerated by the patient's body. Despite the fact that no specialist can accurately determine the life expectancy of a patient after complex treatment, statistical data can still be given.

If the pathology was detected at stage 1 of development during a routine examination, then after complex therapy, complete recovery can be achieved in 90% of cases. It largely depends on the location of the tumor.

If a pathology is detected at the 2nd stage of development, when there is no damage to distant organs by metastases, the chances of a complete recovery after surgery are 60–80%. In the future, the risk of recurrence of the disease is high.

If pathology is detected at stage 3 of development, the chances of a 5-year survival are about 55%. This is due to the rapid growth of the tumor and the onset of metastasis.

With confirmation of stage 4 bowel cancer, the chances of a 5-year survival after surgery are no more than 10%. Due to the appearance of many metastases in distant organs, multiple organ failure often develops.

Possible complications and consequences

Any surgical intervention is dangerous for its complications, and such cancer therapy is no exception. The first sign of the development of postoperative complications are smudges of blood in the abdominal cavity.

In the early period after surgical therapy, poor wound healing and damage to the bacterial microflora can be observed. All this worsens the patient's condition. When such complications occur, the consequences can be the most unfavorable. A weakened body may not be able to cope with the additional load, which can cause blood poisoning and death.

In the list of dangerous complications of surgery and consequences that can lead to death after intervention on the intestine, there is insufficient anastomosis. Under this term lies the unsatisfactory bonding of the two segments as a result of the elimination of the affected area. Improper suturing can cause the junction to become thinner and torn. In this case, the contents of the intestine pour into the abdominal cavity, provoking the development of peritonitis - an extremely dangerous condition, often causing the death of the patient.

Digestive disorders are a frequent complication after surgery. Many patients complain of the development of flatulence and defecation disorders that occur after eating. This leads to the fact that patients have to completely change their taste preferences, giving preference to monotonous food, which does not cause the appearance of such effects and is well tolerated by the body.

After the surgical intervention, adhesive disease may develop. In this case, the fibrous tissue, as it were, glues the intestines and abdominal organs together. This violation can cause poor intestinal patency, provoke the appearance of pain and defecation disorders. The adhesive process poses a danger not only to health, but also to the life of the patient and often requires additional surgical interventions.

Prevention

People who are at risk need to know how the development of oncological diseases of the intestine can be prevented, how they prevent (it is often possible to prevent not only the occurrence of pathology, but also its transition to the next stages) the appearance of cancer.

To prevent the development of a pathological condition, you should try to adhere to a healthy lifestyle. First of all, this concerns bad habits, which it is desirable to get rid of completely, because toxins from tobacco and tobacco smoke enter the intestines with saliva, creating prerequisites for cancerous cell degeneration, and alcohol directly negatively affects the state of all organs of the gastrointestinal tract. tract.

To prevent the development of bowel cancer, you need to ensure that up to 80% of the diet falls on vegetables and fruits. They do not have to be consumed fresh. If desired, they can be baked in the oven or boiled. In addition, it is necessary to add low-fat varieties of fish and meat to the menu. It is advisable to completely exclude semi-finished products, fast food, sweet carbonated drinks and various types of preservation from the diet, since the content of harmful additives in these products is high, which can start the process of malignant tissue transformation.

To prevent the development of cancer, it is imperative to lead an active lifestyle. Motor activity helps to improve intestinal motility and eliminate harmful substances from the mucous membranes. This reduces the risk of developing cancer. It is imperative to undergo scheduled examinations, since the first symptoms of this pathological condition are not considered indicative.

With regular visits to doctors, the chances of timely detection of precancerous conditions increase. Their treatment reduces the risk of developing cancer. Preventive examinations are especially important for people who have a family history of oncology.

Patients who have undergone cancer treatment and achieved remission should focus on preventing relapse. It is mandatory to refrain from drinking alcohol and smoking. If you are overweight, you should follow a special diet that allows you to stabilize body weight. To reduce the risk of re-development of a malignant neoplasm in the intestine, you need to follow all the doctor's recommendations for normal recovery in the postoperative period.

After discharge from the hospital, the patient should follow a sparing diet and perform special exercises that reduce the risk of developing adhesions and recurrence of a malignant tumor. People who managed to achieve remission after complex therapy for gastrointestinal cancer need to be examined by highly specialized specialists every 3-6 months. If neoplasms are detected in such patients, repeated surgical intervention is performed.