Monday, September 28, 2009

How can colon cancer spread to the liver / possibly kidneys (via cat scan I believe)...when...

How can colon cancer spread to the liver / possibly kidneys (via cat scan I believe)...when...?
The blood test came back fine, and radiation and chemo was being received for the spot of colon cancer (which had spread). They are now having a PET scan done to see what these spots are - and it is posible there is just damage from the radiation or chemo (about 1 month ago)- have you heard of this? Anyways, any help (nothing to do with prayer, staying happy...I am not in the mood for that stuff right now) you can give is appreciated. Um I wasn't meaning to say that the cancer had spread by a Cat Scan, but that this was the test that has caused concern.
Cancer - 6 Answers
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1 :
The cancer cells can mutate and leave the original host and search the body to find another area to live in. The PET scan should show you pretty well where exactly it is. good luck
2 :
The veins from the colon go to the portal vein carrying blood to the liver. It is a haematogenous spread ie , caused by blood circulation. Other ways are by lymphatics or directly to the structures in close proximity. Hope it helped. Good luck!
3 :
a PET scan checks for cells that uptake a certain type of sugar...usually cancer cells. If the cells dont take up the sugar, they could be benign spots, dead cancer cells or scar tissue from radiation/chemo. A CT scan just checks for masses. Which could be any of the above mentioned things. Good luck...I hope its nothing to worry about.
4 :
Radiation can cause damage to the colon. The test may have been done to see if the spot on the colon was damaged tissue or cancerous tissue. Cancer can spread via direct extension, like growing bigger and bigger and invading surrounding tissue, or through the lymphatic system, which could cause it to spread throughout the body and to other organs or could spread through the blood also to other areas in the body. The test could have been performed to check any of these. You should just ask your dr why they are doing this test and what they are looking for.
5 :
The poster, "aWellWisher" is correct. The liver is probably the most common site for colon cancer metastases.
6 :
Many things can affect your health. Drugs, chemo, radiation, environment, diet and etc. By the time some people get to the doctor's office, they are already healing. Doctors in general are knowledgebale about body mechanics and fuction. Get a Doctor you trust in and figure out what is going on with your health.

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Thursday, September 24, 2009

If a doctor never even examined you and you die of liver and colon cancer is he at fault

If a doctor never even examined you and you die of liver and colon cancer is he at fault?
you tell the dr you are sick he says dont worry about it then you die of colon cancer and liver cancer is dr at fault
Other - Business & Finance - 3 Answers
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1 :
well doctors can only do so much anyways, but he wouldnt even be thought of unless he actually examined you, even if he did and said you had liver cancer and tried to fix it, then you died, he is not responsible
2 :
No, a doctor isn't responsible for your death unless it was from malpractice. I think. So, if they had never examined you, they had never known of your sickness, they don't have anything at fault but if they did examined you, they have known of your life threatening disease and ignored or delayed treatment or sent you to appropriate treatment doctor/facility and it proof to have cause your death, then they'll probably go to jail or lost their license or both.
3 :
I believe, in this case, he would be liable. You are coming to doctor to provide you with a service. Once you are in his office, you are under his care and he is being paid, by you, for his service. If you told him your symptoms and he knows you are sick and does nothing...then...in my opinion..he should be held accountable. He would not be held accountable...if you were "not" under his care and he was just there.

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Sunday, September 20, 2009

Is it possible that I have colon cancer

Is it possible that I have colon cancer?
I'm 16 years old and my mother was diagnosed with colon cancer this summer, and she is 52. I recently started bleeding irregularly, I have diarrhea often, and I get dizzier than usual. Should I worry about it? I really don't want to go to the doctor unless I absolutely have to. Thanks in advance!
Cancer - 3 Answers
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1 :
The chance is extremely low. even though your mother has it, you more than likely don't. only people in their 50s and higher will get diagnosed with this illness.
2 :
Your chances of having colon cancer are nil. You have in all probability infective diarrhea. Consult GI specialist.
3 :
diabetes. Avoid sugar and high amounts of carbohydrates. get an a1c diabetes test, it gives your average blood sugar for the last few months. eat smaller meals more often.

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Wednesday, September 16, 2009

I have recently been diagnosed with colon cancer

I have recently been diagnosed with colon cancer?
I am 30 years old, and they have found a tumor...long story. Anyway. I have been referred to Washington Hospital Center. My dad had colon cancer 3 years ago (believe my case is genetic) and I was wondering what is better...washington Hospital center of johns hopkins? I want to make the right choice.
Cancer - 8 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Hey, Ohh, I'm very sorry to hear. Um.. Sorry, but I'm not here to answer that, just telling you good luck. I'm from australia so yeah. -.-"
2 :
From what I heard, Johns Hopkins is one of the best hospitals in the U.S. But, essentially, do what is most possible, and what you think is the best for you.
3 :
First and foremost, I am very sorry to hear that & my prayers are with you. Secondly, I've never heard of WHC but I do know that Johns Hopkins is a wonderful hospital!
4 :
I cant actually answer your question because im not in the states, but im 21 and fighting colon cancer for the second time. I know it sucks having it so young so if you need anyone to chat to, pls feel free to message me.
5 :
Johns Hopkins is an excellent hospital. They are a teaching hospital & at the forefront of research. However, remember hosps assoc w/universities will have a group of physicians observing all of your procedures. You will have doctors learning how to perform procedures on you under the supervision of top doctors. You will receive excellent care, but you might feel a bit of a "fishbowl" experience or that you are a guinea pig. I don't know what type of hosp Washington Hospital Center is. Yes, you want the best medicine/technology has to offer. I've had many surgeries at teaching hospitals. However, the last surgery I had I just wanted to be a patient & not a case for someone to learn from (although in many "regular" hosps u'll have ppl who are also observing/learning). At the "regular" hosp, I got to just have my surgery & heal. That's plenty enough to deal with; ppl are still in & out of your room at all hours. I didn't want anyone who was not an expert poking & prodding me. If it were a little-known disease, I'd go for the university hospital due to the research factor; sometimes they'll have exp that regular hospitals won't. I've known many ppl who've had great success w/colon cancer at local hospitals. Colon cancer is something we know a lot about. They can remove the tumor & part of the intestines. Sometimes radiation &/or chemo are not necessary. Also, the atmosphere of the hosptial has a lot to do with recovery. Visit the floors you'd be on in both hosp, if possible. Sometimes smaller hospitals have great benefits. Speak w/patient advocates in both hospitals. Tell them your concerns & ask questions (write them all down beforehand). Research the doctors (& teams: anesthesiologist, assisting surgeon, oncologist, etc) for both centers. Go with the professionals whom you have the most confidence.
6 :
Both fine hospitals, so don't worry about it...just be glad it was caught so early, you are very lucky indeed! Colon cancer is very easy to treat if caught early (easy for me to say, I know), they'll just resect the affected length of colon and sew the ends back together. Learn all you can from reliable sources, it makes the cancer less of an enemy and more of a neighbor you could do without! Best wishes
7 :
I am here to say sorry for what happened to ya i would say genetics hope you get better!
8 :
Well, my mother had colon cancer. My mother had surgery at John Hopkins. We were not too happy with the treatment and service there. I would try Washington Hospital. But then again, I would go by your situation. Do your research, but get on this fast. You cant play around with this. Best wishes to you.

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Saturday, September 12, 2009

Has anyone here survived stage 4 colon cancer

Has anyone here survived stage 4 colon cancer?
We just found out my dad has colon cancer and it's stage 4 (all over the liver) the oncologist said he has 2 months to live without chemo and a max of 2 years before it takes over him even with the chemo...... Please anyone give me any info. Has anyone survived cancer spread to the liver and lymph nodes???? Is it possible to overcome this with the most aggressive chemotherapy? He is in his early forties!
Cancer - 5 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
I'm so sorry to hear of your ordeal hon but, it's in God's hands and yes he may very well beat this beast!!
2 :
There is an ex model named Grace DeLarosa who survived colon cancer. She has a blog which may be useful to you. She chronicles her medication and visits. Sorry to hear about your dad. www. gracedelarosa. com
3 :
My family has along history of colon cancer. My father died from it in 1974, my nephew had it this past year and died from it, and my sister had it but had 18 inches of her colon removed, and now my brother has it and it has spread to his liver. They are doing one last surgery to save him. I hope the best of luck for your father. I would just get the recommendations of his doctors and pray.
4 :
Sorry to hear about it. The hard question to answer is quality versus quantity of life left. If he will lose weight, be nauseated, lose his hair and just be miserable and in pain for the (potential) two years - only he can answer if it is indeed worth it. Unfortunately, in my experience, oncologists tend to be OVERLY optimistic in expected outcomes. Has it spread to the bones as well? A lot depends on his age and overall physical and emotional condition. Obviously, he has been given a death sentence either way. Without knowing any other specifics, his chances of making it five years is likely less than 10%. If he is young and in his 60's or younger and has the will, I would encourage him to fight the damned thing. New therapies are coming out often and you might just buy enough time for something more effective. If he is in his 70's or older, or is in frail health, maybe this is a time to say the things you wanted to - but never did, including your goodbyes. Thermo-ablation can be useful to 'cook' the liver metastases and buy more time. This is dome with a needle that is inserted into the liver and heats up - thereby cooking the tumor. But this is only effective if the liver is not loaded with multiple small tumors. There is also something called microembolization therapy. I'm bringing up diferent options and possibilities. I will keep your father in my thoughts and prayers. Sounds like he is a good man to have had a child as caring as you.
5 :
i honestly dont know the statistics but im sorry to hear that and i hope your father stays strong and fights. miracles happen so dont give up hope.

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Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Does Chemotheropy cause sterility in men with colon cancer

Does Chemotheropy cause sterility in men with colon cancer?
I have a nice guy in my life that found out he had a bad case of colon cancer at the young age of 37. He went in for surgery right after chirstmas and start chemo treatments. He had 6 weeks of chemo a 2nd surgery and 6 to 12 weeks of more chemo. We were planning a longterm relationship but I had not the heart to ask him if all the chemo would cause problems with making babies later on. Something we had talked about having more kids earilier before all this happened but then this seemed to happened so fast... I did not think to ask him questions like that. Is our own kids too much to hopeful? Thanks for the replies...
Cancer - 2 Answers
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1 :
chemotherapy of whatever cancer causes oligospermia(decreased number of sperm cells) or azoospermia(absence of sperm cells) in both cases,it is reversible once chemo is over.
2 :
Nano is partly correct. Most chemo drugs will affect sperm counts. Most men are given the option of sperm banking before chemo starts...as a "just in case" plan. Sometimes the effects of chemo will reverse and men will be able to have children down the road. However, depending on the chemo drugs, the strength, frequency and duration may cause long-term or irreversible damage. My husband was permanently sterilized due to long-term chemo treatments. I wouldn't wait to speak with him about this - and if he doesn't know the answer...maybe both of you could speak with a doctor. Don't let the answer determine your future with him -- you'll be able to deal with whatever side effects that may or may not happen.

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Friday, September 4, 2009

Could I possibly have colon cancer since I get butt cramps a lot

Could I possibly have colon cancer since I get butt cramps a lot?
As the title says, yes I get butt cramps a lot. IS THAT A SIGN OF COLON CANCER? I swear this is not a joke
Cancer - 3 Answers
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1 :
No it is not a sign of colon cancer. It is a sign of nerve or muscle problems.
2 :
Could be a lot of things, including a poor diet. See a Dr, who can get a full history and make a proper diagnosis.
3 :
Unlikely, unless it is accompanied by a number of other symptoms such as bleeding, weight loss, etc... More likely it is what is known as Proctalgia Fugax. This type of cramp often occurs in the middle of the night and can last a variable amount of time; generally from a few seconds to 30 minutes. Many sufferers encounter it less than 6 times a year. There is no known cause for proctalgia fugax, but it is thought to be related to a muscle spasm of the rectum. There is also no known cure. There are remedies which range from warm baths (if the pain lasts long enough to draw a bath), relaxation techniques, and gentle massage of the anus.

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Tuesday, September 1, 2009

My mom is dying of stage IV colon cancer, how do I cope

My mom is dying of stage IV colon cancer, how do I cope?
I'm 18 and in college which is stressful on it's own. Now, we just discovered my mom has stage IV colon cancer & it's terminal. She just had surgery to remove bits of her colon, but the cancer in her liver isn't curable. She's really depressed and has high anxiety. She's only 49 too. I'm so stressed and it's affecting my health and schoolwork and everything. Any advice? I feel like my world is falling apart.
Cancer - 4 Answers
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1 :
I'd get a leave of absence from classes, or withdraw if you can still do it without severe financial penalty. Talk to a college administrator. They may have a mercy provision for these things. Spend as much time with her as you can. Don't argue. Just make her feel like the most special person in the world for her time left. You will not regret that investment of time in her happiness. And she will leave this earth feeling like she made a difference.
2 :
Sweetheart i lost my mother to cervical cancer when i was 12 years old i never got to know my mother. Im 49years old to and had cervical cancer 4yrs. ago and i just finished up with chemo. and rad. for Breast cancer.I had lots of friend support but no family support.I think as the other answer said i would try and find away to take a leave from school im almost sure they would understand if they don't so be it you only have one mother spend all the time with her that you can and just let her know you're there for her and how much you love her.I would cut off both arms if i had that option again good luck to you sweetheart i know its very hard but hang in there.
3 :
There are support groups for family members of the terminally ill. The social services dept of the clinic or hospital taking care of your mom may be able to help. They can give you tips on how to cope as well as help mom & there is no need to tell her you are having trouble & seeking help. As far as school goes, see your advisor & sort out the best solution for you. One thing is certain & that is no one comes away from the experience unchanged. Best you can do is be there for her in whatever way you can & let her pass knowing you willl be OK. She will be more worried about you when its time for her to let go. It will take a while , but you will get through it if you remember the good times. All the best
4 :
hi ssooo sorry pls leave school talk to the guidance office for a medical leave now i would assume its 0-6 mos so spend time with mom make a list of all her wants and needs tell her you love her and thank you and tell her you will be OKAY cause you will , this way she won't struggle to hang on if your acting scared , hospice might be able to help your family or a local pastor knowing your eternal destination is very comforting for all sorry been there done that my mil was dx at 60 died 65 but hers metas to liver and lungs in 5 yrs your moms is fast advanced I"M SO SORRY but GOD is waiting for you to call upon him he gives a peace that surpasses all understanding , cast all your cares upon the LORD for he careth for you, this is hard but life is short and Eternity is forever so talk to a clergy might help everyone? miracles still happen

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