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Colon Cancer Q & A
by Brian Citro, MDWhat are the symptoms of colon cancer?
Some of the symptoms common to colon cancer are also common to many other conditions as well, like hemorrhoids. Monitor your symptoms, and if you have bleeding with your bowel movements, you should see Dr. Citro right away.
Colon cancer develops over many years, so it’s better to try to catch some of the symptoms early and begin treatment right away. Some of the other symptoms common to colon cancer are:
- Bleeding with bowel movements and blood in the stool
- Ongoing changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation
- Lower-abdominal pain and discomfort
- Significant, unexplained weight loss
- Ongoing weakness and fatigue
What diagnostic tests does the doctor use for colon cancer?
Diagnostic tests for colon cancer include:
- A physical exam
- Blood tests
- Colonoscopy
- Other screenings
You’ll be armed with tools and information to take home, to prepare you as much as possible. They will help you feel confident about your treatment options and the path designed specifically for you.
What are my treatment options?
There are three main types of treatment options available:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
Sometimes these treatment options are used together for maximum effect, and to give you the greatest relief from your cancer symptoms.
Chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy can be used to attempt to shrink the cancer before or after surgery, along with other targeted drugs.
The treatment options after the diagnosis depend on the stage and severity of the cancer. Dr. Citro will talk to you and design a treatment plan best suited to your needs.
What is the da Vinci minimally invasive surgery?
Dr. Citro and his staff offer minimally invasive surgery using the da Vinci robotic technology to remove part of the colon.
This new technology allows for smaller incisions with minimal to no scarring, compared to more traditional surgeries that involved one big incision. You can also expect a shorter recovery period and a quicker return of your bowel functions.
Book online or call now to make an appointment.
