Rectal Cancer
Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.
The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.
Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the rectum, the final portion of the large intestine that connects the colon to the anus. It is the fourth most common type of cancer in the United States, with an estimated 50,000 new cases diagnosed each year.
Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact cause of rectal cancer is not known, but it is believed to develop when the cells in the rectum mutate and grow out of control. Some of the risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing rectal cancer include:
Age: Most cases of rectal cancer occur in individuals over the age of 50.
Family history: Individuals with a family history of rectal cancer are at an increased risk.
Diet: A diet that is high in red and processed meat, saturated fat, and low in fiber can increase the risk of rectal cancer.
Inflammatory bowel disease: Chronic inflammation in the rectum and colon can increase the risk of rectal cancer.
Symptoms:
The early stages of rectal cancer often have no symptoms, which is why regular screenings are important. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include:
Changes in bowel habits: Such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools.
Blood in the stool: This may appear as bright red blood or as black, tarry stools.
Abdominal pain: This may be a sign that the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak, even when well-rested.
Complications:
Rectal cancer can lead to a variety of complications, including:
Bowel obstruction: The cancer may grow large enough to block the rectum, preventing normal bowel movements.
Anemia: Bleeding from the rectum can lead to a loss of red blood cells, causing fatigue and weakness.
Spread to other parts of the body: If the cancer spreads, it can affect other organs and tissues, such as the liver or lungs.
Prevention:
While it is not always possible to prevent rectal cancer, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the disease, including:
Eating a healthy diet: A diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in red and processed meat, can reduce the risk of rectal cancer.
Regular exercise: Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of developing rectal cancer.
Quitting smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of rectal cancer, so quitting smoking can help reduce the risk.
Screening: Regular screening can help detect rectal cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable.
Treatment:
The treatment for rectal cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the individual's overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these therapies. Surgery is often the primary treatment for rectal cancer and may involve removing the cancerous tissue and nearby lymph nodes.
Oriental Medicine:
Oriental medicine, including acupuncture, acupressure, and herbal medicine, may be used as a complementary therapy to conventional treatments for rectal cancer. While there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of these therapies, some studies have suggested that acupuncture may help relieve symptoms associated with rectal cancer, such as pain and fatigue.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, rectal cancer is a serious disease that requires early detection and treatment. While it is not always possible to prevent rectal cancer, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the disease, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking. Complementary therapies, such as Oriental medicine