We have seen many patients who have asked us, Is It Hemorrhoids or Colon Cancer? Their main concern is that they are confused and don’t know how to recognize it, so we have decided to address it.
Now, if that sounds interesting, you also have the same question in mind: Is It Hemorrhoids or Colon Cancer? Then don’t worry because this article is specially designed for you.
Is It Hemorrhoids or Colon Cancer?
Although hemorrhoids and colon cancer are two completely distinct diseases, they often have symptoms. This article will teach you about the various indications.
It’s understandable to be concerned about seeing blood in your stool for the first time. The good news is that blood in your stool is most likely a symptom of hemorrhoids, which aren’t usually a major medical problem, although unpleasant.
Hemorrhoids are bulging veins in the anus and rectum region that are extremely common: By 50, almost half of all individuals have hemorrhoids.
They may be internal (inside the rectum or anus) or external (on or protruding from the rectum or anus), with symptoms ranging from minimal or moderate discomfort to severe pain, itching, and bleeding.
While the precise etiology of hemorrhoids is unclear, they are more likely to arise when there is an increase in pressure in the region, such as while straining to have a bowel movement.
They are more familiar with pregnancy, elderly, lengthy periods of sitting, persistent constipation or diarrhea, and pulling or carrying heavy things.
Hemorrhoids are typically not harmful; the symptoms will go away in a few days.
Here are some of the most prevalent hemorrhoid signs and symptoms:
- Irritation or itchiness in the anal region
- Bright red blood on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or on the stool
- Discomfort or pain, particularly during bowel movements
- A painful or sensitive lump(s) on or near your anus
Doctors suggest taking a lukewarm bath, alternating moist heat with ice, and reducing lengthy amounts of sitting time to ease symptoms.
There are also over-the-counter topical creams and suppositories available to combat the symptoms. Patients should also use scent- and dye-free toilet paper and clean the area.
Colon cancer (also known as colorectal cancer) is a kind of cancer that develops from the inner wall of the large intestine.
The signs and symptoms of colon cancer are often nonspecific, which means they might be confused for various other disorders. No symptoms may be present when colon cancer is identified in its early stages.
The following are the most common symptoms and indicators of colon cancer:
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Seat in a dark color
- A change in bowel habits that lasts more than a few days, such as diarrhea, constipation, or stool narrowing
- A desire to have a bowel movement is not alleviated by having one.
- Cramping or soreness in the abdomen (belly)
- Weakness and exhaustion
- Unintentional weight loss
Most persons who exhibit these symptoms do not have cancer. Still, if you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor so that the underlying reason may be identified and addressed.
Physicians use sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy to examine growths (polyps) in the colon to screen for colon cancer. A biopsy will be performed to evaluate if the development is malignant if a change is discovered.
Treatment for colon cancer depends on how early it is detected, but it may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted medicines.
A family history of colon polyps (small clumps of cells that grow on the colon’s lining) and long-standing inflammation of the large intestine are both risk factors for colorectal cancer.
Colon cancer screening is critical since the signs are typically modest and easily disregarded. The American Cancer Society advises beginning routine tests at the age of 45.
