Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Colon cancer that has went into the Liver

Colon cancer that has went into the Liver?
My grandmother is 81 years old and has just been diagnosed with colon cancer and it has spread to her liver. She only weighs 95 pounds and they do not want to try kemo or surgary. My questions is "how long does she have left"? I am not sure and I am really quite upset. I really want to know how much time I have left with her.
Cancer - 7 Answers
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1 :
im really sorry to hear this! everyone is different, im not trying to be mean, or sound negative...but spend as much time with her as you can. i lost my grandfather to colon cancer, it spread fast, and happened quick. i would say from the time he was told, to the time he passed, it was less then 6 months. this does not mean your gram will have less time! like i said every one is different, there is also different stages. keep you head up, think positive, and make the moments you have with her special.
2 :
Cancer is something that is very scary, I lost my stepdad that I knew since I was three to it. No one can tell you how much time she has left. It all depends on how quickly it spreads and how much her body is fighting it on its own. I know it sounds harsh, but after watching my stepdad go through Chemo, it might be better for her to not try fighting with chemo. Just spend as much time with her while she is able. Ask her what she wants to do and go do it. Don't think of yourself as much right now because she needs you to focus on her and making her last bit of time here as good as possible. Doing this will make it easier for you when it is time to say goodbye.
3 :
Colon cancer and Liver cancer go hand in hand with each other and depending on how far spread it is, will determine how much time she has left. Plus if she is not going to have surgery, then her chances of a longer time period drop dramatically. No one can really predict how much time she has, as everyone is different. Spend as much time with her and tell her repeatedly how much you love her and enjoy what time you have left with her.
4 :
Why are the doctors saying no chemo or surgery? Have they mentioned the word "hospice?" Many times when the cancer metastasizes (spreads) to a major organ, especially the liver or pancreas, which are filters within the body, this is very serious. Of course, everyone is different, but she may have a few short months if no treatment is considered. I don't know where you live, but NY has a great place called Calvary in the Bronx. You want to make sure that she is kept pain free as much as possible, & that she has "quality" time left with her family & especially yourself. I wish I could offer more encouragement. Phyllis G.
5 :
Sorry about your grandmother. Her age and the advance of the disease indicate not much time left--months perhaps. If you keep your expectation of time low, you will not be as shocked and you will give yourself more time with her as soon and as often as you can. Then every week with her that goes beyond your expectations would be an extra blessing. Good luck and God bless.
6 :
Colon generally does not grow very fast, so usually people have at least a year or two after they are first diagnosed. You have to ask the oncologist for an accurate assessment. On average, people with colon cancer that has spread to other organs (stage IV) have a life expectancy of 5 years or less. The oncologist may have more accurate information on how quickly the cells have been growing thus far in your grandmother, and that might provide a better picture of what to expect. In general, predictions about how long someone will live are not much more than educated guesses, so even if the doc said she had only months, they could be wrong. An acquaintance of mine had stage IV colon cancer and he was initially given a live expectancy of approximately 6 more months. He lived for 12 more years.
7 :
I donâ€™t want to sound mean or scare you anymore than you already are, but you REALLY need to talk to her doctor. Colon cancer patients usually have surgery even if it will not cure them and they are not candidates for chemo or radiation. This is because you run the risk of the patient becoming obstructed or the cancer perforating the colon wall. Not having all the facts I tend to think the doctors believe she will expire before she will become obstructed or perforate. This means she only has a few weeks at most. I am so sorry.

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Friday, July 24, 2009

Is it a hemorrhoid or colon cancer

Is it a hemorrhoid or colon cancer?
I have had bleeding, itching and lots of pain on and off for almost a year now. Iâ€™m too embarrassed to go to doctors but now Iâ€™m afraid that it could be colon cancer. Both my grandmas had colon cancer. Iâ€™m Just wondering if there are any other signs that it might be colon cancer or just hemorrhoids?? I forgot to mention that Iâ€™m only 19. Iâ€™ve also been experiencing weird gas like pains that are so painful they wake me up not sure if that has anything to do with it though?
Cancer - 3 Answers
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1 :
It is very doubtful that at your age it is cancer but, and this is a very large BUT, people die every day because they were too embarrassed to go to the doctor with a problem like yours. I have prostate cancer and believe me I know what I am talking about - it leaves you with zero privacy when you get it treated but it leaves you alive. Go to a doctor and find out it is just hemorrhoids and you can stop worrying.
2 :
Yes, go to the dr! Whatever it is, the dr should be able to help you. Don't be embarrassed as the dr will have seen it all before.
3 :
Please go. I was your age when I started having symptoms, and only 20 when I was diagnosed. I avoided going to the doctor for so long because I was too embarrassed, and I ended up being forced to go when I was in so much pain. By that stage it was advanced. So please just go and forget about the embarrassment factor. Doctors see everything, so they will be used to it. But pls listen to this carefully. It is most likely, that because of your age, you will be fobbed off, and they will say it's nothing. If they say it is hemorrhoids, ask for medication for it, and if after a couple of weeks you still have those symptoms, go back, and keep going back until they know what the problem is and it is resolved. The only reason I kept going back is because of the pain, and each time I was told something different, until eventually they did tests.

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Monday, July 20, 2009

Could a 16 year old get colon cancer

Could a 16 year old get colon cancer?
I think I have colon cancer. I looked up the symptoms and I have abdominal pain and thin stools. I have been having pain in the left side of my stomach for a couple weeks, and I think it could be cancer. I also fart a lot, so I think that may be another symptom. When I press on my stomach it hurts as well. Please help, what else could it be?
Cancer - 2 Answers
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1 :
No.
2 :
A dozen different things could cause the stomach and abdominal pain you describe. Go to a pharmacy, they are found in lots of different stores, and talk with the pharmacist. The pharmacist, not the clerk working in the pharmacy department, is familiar with the over the counter meds they carry and may recommend something for your pain. He/She may also recommend a doctor you should see based on your description of your symptoms. I seriously doubt that you have colon cancer. I do wish you a speedy and good diagnosis of the problem.

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Thursday, July 16, 2009

What's a good diet for a colon cancer patient

What's a good diet for a colon cancer patient?
Can you give me some foods that help fight colon cancer and some foods we should avoid.
Cancer - 3 Answers
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1 :
All of this advice depends on the person's health status. For example, does he/she have trouble eating, are they undergoing treatment of any kind that can cause certain side effects and affect the way they eat, are they physically active (THEY SHOULD BE), etc. Visit this site http://how-to-prevent-colon-cancer.blogspot.com/ to learn how to cleanse your colons, improve your digestion and conquer colon cancer, number 2 cancer killer.
2 :
hot sauce
3 :
Hello: foods to avoid is pop corn. and a lot of red meat corn, too much dairy a little should be ok but too much can cause stomach cramps. Foods to eat: High fiber whole wheat bread or pasta. Lots of veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, beans of all types. I also recommend potato soup or mash potatoes also carrots or carrot soup . For protein I recommend chicken, or fish also smooth peanut butter the whole peanuts can irritate your colon. Also try juicing with veggies as well as fruit I have had to live with this diet so long. But it does no have to bland food. (curried carrot soup- look up on food network made by rachael ray.) Or Potato soup There are a ton of them I substitute the milk for soy milk it does not irritate the stomach as much. Have fun cooking or eating out. Enjoy Life

What's a good diet for a colon cancer patient?
Can you give me some foods that help fight colon cancer and some foods we should avoid.
Cancer - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
All of this advice depends on the person's health status. For example, does he/she have trouble eating, are they undergoing treatment of any kind that can cause certain side effects and affect the way they eat, are they physically active (THEY SHOULD BE), etc. Visit this site http://how-to-prevent-colon-cancer.blogspot.com/ to learn how to cleanse your colons, improve your digestion and conquer colon cancer, number 2 cancer killer.
2 :
hot sauce
3 :
Hello: foods to avoid is pop corn. and a lot of red meat corn, too much dairy a little should be ok but too much can cause stomach cramps. Foods to eat: High fiber whole wheat bread or pasta. Lots of veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, beans of all types. I also recommend potato soup or mash potatoes also carrots or carrot soup . For protein I recommend chicken, or fish also smooth peanut butter the whole peanuts can irritate your colon. Also try juicing with veggies as well as fruit I have had to live with this diet so long. But it does no have to bland food. (curried carrot soup- look up on food network made by rachael ray.) Or Potato soup There are a ton of them I substitute the milk for soy milk it does not irritate the stomach as much. Have fun cooking or eating out. Enjoy Life

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Sunday, July 12, 2009

Does this mean there is nothing to worry about with the colon cancer surgery

Does this mean there is nothing to worry about with the colon cancer surgery?
My dad is 71 years old with a leaky heart valve. His cardiologist gave him clearance for the surgery. Does this mean there is nothing to worry about with the colon cancer surgery and that everything will go good
Cancer - 3 Answers
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1 :
There is always some risk with surgery, and by being over 70 and having heart problems, your father has 2 main risks. But his cardiologist has determined that the benefits of the surgery outweigh the risks of heart problems. Most likely the surgeon will take extra precautions because of the additional risk, such as using laproscopic or hand-assisted laproscopic surgery, which are slightly less invasive.
2 :
There is never "nothing" to worry about with any surgical procedure, but the fact the cardiologist gave the go-ahead indicates your Dad will do fine since he must be healthy enough. In the scheme of things, resection of part (or all) of the colon is a straightforward procedure, and between 1,800 and 2,000 of this type of surgery are performed in the US every day! He'll be fine. But he will have to learn to eat better! Best wishes to your Dad, and have a Happy Thanksgiving!
3 :
The use of anesthesia can cause cardiac arrhythmias as a side effect of the drug itself. If someone already suffers from atrial fribilation or a ventricular arrhythmias then they would be very concerned about surgery. There are many who suffer from leaky valves. That all by itself would probably not prevent surgery unless the leak was moderate to severe or in combination with other heart issues such as congestive heart failure. His cardiologist has determined that his heart condition would not add excessive risk to the procedure and has approved it. The real worry here is getting the ALL tumor out and checking the surrounding lymph nodes for spread. He should have already had a CAT scan to determine if they see things elsewhere. You don't list here in your post any of these results so hard to comment on this. Even if it is late stage colon cancer, a person still gets relief by surgery to remove an obstructed bowel. I will just let you know, my father had colon cancer diagnosed 7 years ago, had the surgery, was positive in 11 out of 21 lymph nodes for spread, had the lymph nodes removed at the same time, and followed 9 months of chemotherapy. He is still alive and doing well with no repercussions from the ordeal. He is now almost 82. Make sure you and your siblings get your colonoscopy every 5 years. Family history is an important predictor of issues for your generation. Getting diagnosed early and prevention by polyp removal makes this very survivable. Hope that helps

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Wednesday, July 8, 2009

What can i expect with my father's stage 4 colon cancer

What can i expect with my father's stage 4 colon cancer?
My father was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer last summer. He has been on chemo and they tried to remove spots on his liver but they returned and chemo started again. You look online at the survial rates and its less than 5% for 5 years and its already been one year!
Cancer - 3 Answers
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1 :
Hi there - sorry to hear about your father. All cancers, treatments and recoveries vary because all of the detailed circumstances vary from person to person. It depends on the age and general health of each individual. And very importantly, how early the cancer was found, i.e. the stage the cancer is in. This will dictate the course of treatment recommended and provide indications/statistics regarding recovery. Seek out professional advice both from individuals involved in your father's care and reliable medical sources. The best thing to do is talk with his doctors yourself, however, if you're underage, you'll have to ask an adult family member for all of the facts regarding his specific case. If you are old enough to consult his doctors, go prepared, research it yourself via the Cancer Society website or other reputable sites, and write down any questions that you have. If you're in Canada, make an appointment with the Dr and be prepared to use your health card as your provincial health care provider is charged for the doctor's time. You can do the most for your dad by remaining cautiously optimistic,(positivity has proven beneficial health results) and providing a lot of love and support. If you know of something he really likes then try to share that with him, like word games, or getting his favourite comedy DVD or reading to him - whatever you can think of that makes you both happy.... I hope this helps, Andrea
2 :
I am not sure what you mean by what you can expect? Are you asking for an explanation of how the disease progresses or are you asking about the possibility of a cure? I do mean to be cruel I know this is a difficult time for you, but you should know that he cannot be cured. His doctors are doing their best to give him more time; they are not trying to cure him. When the disease no longer responds to chemo they will recommend stopping it. They 5 year survival rate you found is correct. This means about 5% of patients diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer are alive 5 years later. I am so sorry. When you feel you are ready I suggest you look into hospice. These are wonderful, caring and special people who help patients and their families with the physical and emotional process of dieing. They will work with your fatherâ€™s doctor to keep him as comfortable as possible and it allows him to remain at home. Best wishes to you both.
3 :
hello, wow that last comment was a straight to the point. My father was diagnosed with 4rth stage colon cancer back in 2005. He has been amazing. He has had surguries and treatments and I have literally watched him go from being a strong man to becomming very week in recent days. I read the survival rates online in the begining as well and felt unsatisfied. I wanted to know right then exactly what to expect and when his time was up. The truth is I was told to stop looking for the answer in statistics, and instead offer as much support as possible to my family. I was tought that making ammends with whatever was between my father and I now was important, and honestly I eventually have learned to cope. MY father is near the end now and it has at times been an emotionally rollercoaster, but he has nearly beat the odds. My advise is for you to spend time with your father, and also realize that todays cancer treatments are far better than that of the past. You wont find your answers here I never did, but as time progresses his physical appearance will change, especially with therapy. God bless you.

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Saturday, July 4, 2009

Would I have normal blood work if I had colon cancer

Would I have normal blood work if I had colon cancer?
If I had a tumor in my colon, would it be possible to have a all my blood work, including complete blood count be 100% normal? I have had blood work done twice within the last 9 months (once for my annual physical, and again when I had the flu). Both times the blood work was normal. If i had colon cancer (or any other cancer), would my blood work be abnormal? would my white blood cells be elevated?
Cancer - 1 Answers
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1 :
Frequently, anemia is evident, but would not have to be present. White cell count usually normal, and unless spread already, remainder of chemistries are usually normal too. Even if spread, bloodwork is frequently normal. Blessings

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Wednesday, July 1, 2009

What is the difference between Colon Cancer and Intestinal Cancer

What is the difference between Colon Cancer and Intestinal Cancer?
And how does one get screened for Intestinal cancer? Colon cancer runs in my family and I have a colonoscopy every year. But I found out that a close relative has Intestinal cancer. How does one get screened for Intestinal Cancer? Smar A** You know this is a serious question about my health and I have a relative that is dying of cancer and all you A** Holes can do is make smart A** jokes. Thank you Valley R! Thank you Lovemybebe's!
Polls & Surveys - 4 Answers
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1 :
about 5 feet... You already answered your own question... the Colonoscopy If its that serious... see a doctor... how in God's green Earth would you expect an actual answer you can REALLY use on this venue, which has everything from 9-yr-old kiddies... to some real CRETINS...... And more importantly.... why are you asking for CRITICAL medical advice on an entertainment type venue???? and people wonder why folks dont take these questions seriously......
2 :
The Colon is just the last 5 or 6" of the intestines. You get screened by contacting a GI (Gastro-Intestinal) doctor. When they do a colonoscopy the do go up into the intestines ... they test both areas.
3 :
Your colon is only a portion at the end of your large intestines. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/intestinalcancer.html

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