It is frightening and puzzling to be told that a person you love has colon cancer. You desire definite answers and a good plan. We are at Gastrodoxs to make families in Houston to know about treatment options and feel more confident. This is an overview of the fundamentals and alternatives, informed by Dr. Bharat Pothuri. Let's take it one step at a time.
Colon cancer begins as the colony cells become uncontrolled. Early treatment enhances success of treatment. Here's what you should know:
Why it is important: When you understand the fundamentals then you will be educated to make better decisions in the name of your loved one.
The symptoms usually result in preemptive treatment. The symptoms may be similar in men and women. Watch for:
Not always. However, in case there is bleeding, pain, or weight loss, get a doctor.
Dr. Pothuri tells: Stool color or shape changes often were noticed by many people. Those may be the initial symptoms. Don't ignore them."
Staging is used by doctors to determine the extent to which the cancer has extended. It also assists in the selection of appropriate treatment.
Major Fact: Stage 1 has a 90 percent survival, whereas Stage 4 has 14 percent survival. It is a matter of early diagnosis.
Physicians tend to combine therapies. These include:
The stages 1-3 often require surgery as a first measure. It excises the tumor and the lymph nodes surrounding it in case of necessity.
Dr. Pothuri says: "We are minimally invasive trying to be as such in Houston. They assist the patient to recover faster and with minimal pain.
The process of chemotherapy involves the use of medicine to kill cancer cells. It is commonly taken following an operation to avert the recurrence of the cancer.
Popular combinations of drugs: FOLFOX, CAPEOX and FOLFIRI. Other medications are employed to curb such side effects as nausea or fatigue.
Radiation involves the use of strong rays to destroy cancer cells. It is applied to rectal cancer more but is also useful in some cases of the colon.
Such drugs target cancerous cells depending on their peculiarities. They do not damage a majority of healthy cells.
Dr. Pothuri adds: When a tumor is equipped with a mark, targeted therapy can be quite effective.
Immunotherapy assists your immune system in combating cancer. It is effective with some kind of tumors.
One of the new drugs that have good results is pembrolizumab.
Trials are one of those treatments which are not so common.
Ask your physician of MD Anderson or Baylor in Houston.
This is the care that is based on comfort and life quality.
Gastrodoxs provides referrals to families to support services in Houston, such as the one at MD Anderson.
| Treatment | Stage 3 Colon Cancer | Stage 4 Colon Cancer |
| Surgery | Colectomy + lymph nodes | Remove main tumor if possible |
| Chemotherapy | After surgery | To shrink and manage cancer |
| Radiation Therapy | Rare unless rectal involvement | Used to ease symptoms |
| Targeted Therapy | If tumor has specific traits | Common with chemo |
| Immunotherapy | For MSI-H tumors | For MSI-H or after chemo failure |
| Palliative Care | Manages symptoms | Focuses on comfort and support |
Caregiving is tough. Houston has help:
Dr. Pothuri reminds families: You should take care of yourself as well. Relax, seek assistance, and lean on the local support
Houston has top-tier cancer care:
Ongoing care helps catch problems early.
Colon cancer affects mental health too. Encourage:
Dr. Pothuri says: "“"Emotional health is part of the healing process."
A healthy routine supports recovery.
A dietitian can help with a custom meal plan.
Cancer care can be expensive, but help is out there:
Stick to reliable health websites:
It is hard to assist a loved one with colon cancer but you are not alone. You can go on with hope; Dr. Pothuri explains that every patient needs a care that suits him. With this combination of care- surgery, drugs, support-and the best resources of Houston, you can proceed. We work to make that happen."
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Fatigue, bowel diarrhea, blood in the stool, abdominal pains, and weight loss.
Stage 3 entails close lymph nodes. Stage 4 implies the fact that the cancer has disseminated to other organs.
Sometimes. In case of leakage and bleeding or pain, consult a doctor immediately.
About 90% for Stage 1, 71% for Stage 2, 53% for Stage 3, and 14% for Stage 4.
Yes. Trials are done in MD Anderson, Baylor and other centers. Request your oncologist to provide information.
Search in stool, chronic bowel movements, and unexplainable tiredness.
It enhances your immune system against cancer, particularly in MSI -H tumours.
Usually once in 1-3 years after treatment depending on the stage of the disease and the recommendation of the doctor.
Counseling, Memorial Hermann, Houston Methodist, and Internet support groups.
Yes. Nutritious diet, physical activity, and healthy weight are useful in the recovery process.
