Colon cancer can be deadly, often with minimal to no signs or symptoms until it is well advanced. Regular colon cancer screenings and a routine colonoscopy can do a lot to detect colon cancer in its early stages. Dr. Daniel Alpert is a gastroenterologist in New York, NY, who offers comprehensive gastrointestinal services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment of colon cancer.
What You Need To Know About Colon Cancer
Did you know colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States? There are some early signs and symptoms of colon cancer, so it’s important to know what to look for. Early signs and symptoms of colon cancer include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chronic weakness and fatigue
- Chronic abdominal pain and cramping
- Frequent constipation or diarrhea
- Blood in your stool
- Rectal bleeding
If you notice any of the signs or symptoms listed above, you should seek out the expertise of our gastroenterologist. You may need blood and stool testing to determine if you have GI bleeding, anemia, or blood in your stool. Your gastroenterologist may also recommend a colonoscopy to check for any abnormalities or growths in your colon, rectum, and lower digestive system.
It’s important to remember that colon cancer may not have any signs or symptoms. That’s why routine screenings with a stool culture or colonoscopy are recommended. You should have your first colonoscopy by the time you are 45 years old.
Remember that a proper diet can do a lot to help prevent colon cancer. You should try and eat a high-fiber, low-fat diet, with minimal red meat. Eat lean proteins like poultry and fish instead. Choose whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to boost your fiber intake.
Want To Know More?
To find out more about prevention, signs, symptoms, and treatment of colon cancer, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Alpert, gastroenterologist in New York, NY. You can reach him by calling (212) 599-7910, so call today.