Colon Cancer Awareness Month

Some people may start start by seeing their GP because they have symptoms.

Symptoms of colon cancer can include:

• blood in your poo (stools)
• bleeding from the back passage
• a change in your normal bowel habit.

If you have any symptoms or notice anything that is unusual for you, see your GP right away.

See also > Diagnosis of colon cancer

Bei's story

Bei was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in December 2014. Before her diagnosis, she had experienced unusual symptoms and believe it was caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

“For 2 years I had pain on my left side on and off, living like this was getting me down, and I felt stressed and very emotional at times, but I just got on with life braving through the discomfort.

“I tried holistic treatments to help with the IBS and even changed my diet to veganism. Although I felt better, I still wasn’t 100%.

“After my colonoscopy, the consultant told me not to worry but looked very concerned; they had found a lesion blocking my colon and was unable to see the colon in its entirety.

“Following a CT scan and biopsy, I was told my results were inconclusive, but the colorectal specialist team were confident it was cancerous and would treat it as such."

 

Following further investigations, Bei was told that the cancer had not spread, and she had colorectal surgery to remove 3/4 of her colon followed by chemotherapy.

“After my surgery they told me that I had Stage 3 cancer! Can you imagine if I just carried on thinking I had IBS and living with pain.

“When I was diagnosed I wasn’t thinking about life after cancer – at that point you’re in shock, you can’t hold back the tears, you’re crying because you’re going to lose your hair, you aren’t even convinced you will have a life after cancer.

"But I got through it by keeping things as normal as possible. Seeing friends and family, going for short walks before the tiredness hit me, cuddles in front of the telly with my hubby. Now I’m back at the gym and after being knocked by this horrible illness I feel like I’m in control again. Life goes on even if you continue to live with the side-effects of your treatment.”

The exact cause of colon cancer is unknown. But things called risk factors can increase the chance of a person developing it. Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will definitely get colon cancer. And if you do not have any risk factors, it does not mean you will not get colon cancer.

People with colon cancer may be advised to change their diet before, during and treatment. You may also experience eating problems and bowel changes after treatment.

If you have been asked to changed your diet, you may have questions about what food types may be appropriate and how to eat healthy.

Your GP or nurse may be able to refer you to a dietician.

Dietitians can look at your diet and any specialist dietary requirements you have to help you address your food needs. They can advise you on which foods are best for you, and if any food supplements would be helpful.

See also > Healthy eating, cancer and cost of living