Many of us are afraid when we hear the word “cancer.” And when we hear the word “advanced” cancer, that fear increases even more. But we shouldn’t give up because we’re scared. The most important thing is to understand this condition correctly , be aware of the available treatments, and face it with strength. So today, let’s talk about what advanced colorectal cancer is, what happens in it, and what we can do.
Simply put, what is advanced colon cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in your colon or rectum. When the cancer has spread beyond where it started, to other parts of your body, doctors call it “advanced” cancer. Your doctor may also use the terms “metastatic” or “stage IV.”
The important thing is, even if this cancer spreads to another part of the body, for example, the liver, it is not “liver cancer.” It is still “colon cancer.” Therefore, doctors treat it with the same medications that are given for colon cancer.
For many people, it is difficult to completely cure cancer at this stage. But that does not mean that there is nothing that can be done. Current treatments can help you live a more comfortable, better life, and extend your life . And scientists are constantly researching new treatments.
How does this cancer spread in the body?
This high risk often occurs when a cancer that was treated years ago comes back. Doctors believe that after the powerful chemotherapy drugs given during the initial cancer treatment, a few very small cancer cells may remain in the body.
Imagine, these remaining cells are so small that even the most advanced scans available today cannot detect them. So these “hidden” cells lie dormant for years, slowly growing, and then once again becoming a tumor large enough to be detected on a scan.
What symptoms might you be experiencing?
Some people may not have any symptoms. But many people will have some symptoms. The symptoms you experience will depend on the size of the cancer and where it has spread in the body. Let's look at this table to explain this further.
| Where the cancer has spread | Possible symptoms |
|---|---|
| Liver | Nausea, stomach upset, yellowing of the skin, itching of the skin. |
| Lungs | Difficulty breathing, persistent cough. |
| Bones | Bone pain, easy bone fractures. |
But remember, many of these symptoms can be managed with treatment. For example, you can take medication for nausea. Oxygen or special breathing exercises can help with breathing difficulties.
What are the treatment options?
Surgery is the main treatment when the cancer is confined to the colon and rectum. However, when the cancer has spread throughout the body, surgery is often not practical.
The best treatments for advanced cancer are treatments that travel through the bloodstream throughout the body and kill cancer cells. There are several main types of these.
Chemotherapy
This is the most common treatment. These drugs enter the bloodstream and kill rapidly dividing cells in the body (such as cancer cells). Sometimes, two or three drugs are given together rather than one drug. However, while these drugs kill cancer cells, they can also harm healthy cells in our body. This is why side effects such as hair loss and mouth sores occur. But the good news is that most of these side effects go away once chemo treatment is over.
Targeted Therapy
These are like “smart missiles.” Instead of affecting every cell, like chemotherapy, these drugs directly attack specific parts of cancer cells. This prevents the cancer cells from growing or surviving. They usually have fewer side effects than chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy
This is a very advanced and successful treatment. Simply put, it stimulates our body's own natural defense system, the immune system. Then, our own immune system is able to recognize cancer cells, attack them, and destroy them.
Choosing the treatment that suits you best
Several factors go into determining which treatment is best for you.
- How far the cancer has spread.
- Your general health.
- Possible side effects of treatment.
- The most important thing: what you expect from treatment.
You may want to fight cancer with all the treatments you can afford, while others may want to be more comfortable with fewer treatments. This is a decision that you have to make. So it's important to be open and honest with your doctor about your hopes and goals.
Things you can do for yourself on this journey
Many people in this situation have common concerns and feelings. These tips may help you.
Control the pain.
Not everyone has pain. But if you do, don't just put up with it. Be sure to tell your doctor about it. You may need a new medication or a different treatment to shrink the tumor. Things like massage, hot and cold compresses, and massage may also help.
Stay active.
In addition to getting enough rest, it's also important to engage in as much light exercise as you can. It can boost your mood, reduce fatigue, and possibly even help you live longer.
Maintain social connections.
When you're battling cancer, it can sometimes feel very lonely. You may feel like, "No one understands what I'm going through." At times like these, talk to your friends, family, a counselor, or a support group of people with cancer like you. Having someone to listen to you is a great source of strength.
Think positively.
Treatment options for advanced colon cancer are improving day by day. Doctors and scientists are working hard to find a complete cure for this. So, don't give up hope.
Take-Home Message
- Advanced colon cancer means that it has spread to other parts of the body, but it is still treated as colon cancer.
- Treatments like chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy can help you live better and longer.
- Your feelings and goals are very important when choosing treatment. Talk openly about these with your doctor.
- Managing pain, staying active, and maintaining contact with loved ones are essential for your mental and physical well-being. Don't give up hope.
Colon cancer, colorectal cancer, cancer treatment, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, cancer symptoms, metastatic cancer, stage IV cancer, cancer care
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