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6 common early signs of colon cancer

6 common early signs of colon cancer

Colon cancer is the second largest cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. According to reports, the chances of developing this health condition are higher in millennials than in older adults. Due to these findings, many experts have reduced the recommended age of regular colon screenings from 50 to 45 years. One must visit a doctor as soon as possible after experiencing the following early warning symptoms of the disease.

Rectal bleeding
Blood in the stools is one of the most common early signs of colon cancer. Doctors may send a stool sample to the laboratory for a fecal occult blood test when this symptom occurs.

Pain in the abdomen
Any abdominal or stomach pain (including discomforts like bloating or cramps) can be an early symptom of this health condition. The pain is due to the formation of cancer cells in the abdominal region.

Changes in bowel habits
Irregularities or changes in bowel habits, such as constipation and diarrhea, are early indicators. Some patients may report changes in stool consistency or narrowing of the stool.

Fatigue
This is a common sign in many health conditions and should not be ignored. Improper absorption of minerals in the body can lead to complications like anemia, which can cause fatigue, tiredness, or weakness.

Tenesmus
Tenesmus can be defined as the feeling of having to pass stool even after one has just had a bowel movement or the feeling that the bowel movement was incomplete. It is a common early symptom, so people experiencing it must visit a health professional at the earliest.

Nausea
Improper digestion or bowel movements can sometimes lead to nausea or vomiting. This sign must not be ignored if it occurs for no apparent reason.

Individuals with a family history of colon cancer are at a higher risk of being affected by the disease. Therefore, they are recommended to go for gene testing and other colon cancer screenings to detect the condition. Genetic tests show if one has a high risk of colon cancer due to inherited cancer syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome (HNPCC) or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Family members who decide not to get gene tested must begin routine screenings for colon cancer at an early age and look for its symptoms.

Upon being diagnosed with cancer, treatment is necessary to curtail the spread and promote recovery in patients. Doctors may recommend options like CYRAMZA and Avastin for colon cancer, which are intravenous infusions. While CYRAMZA is for people with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), Avastin is used to prevent tumor growth. When combatting cancer symptoms, it is crucial to follow the advice and treatments recommended by qualified doctors or healthcare professionals to avoid complications and severe side effects.

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Coping with urges that can trigger a relapse post treatment

Addictions when left untreated can turn into crippling conditions. One can be addicted to smoking, binge drinking, or even shopping. Once addicted, one willfully submits to urges, despite having satisfied them before. However, addictions can be managed and to a great extent treated to full recovery. But, the post-recovery phase is crucial where both the mind and body are put to test and can trigger a relapse. Continue reading to know more about the most common triggers for addictions and how to deal with them.Stress Stress is commonly the root cause of many problems and addictions, both physical and psychological. One can become an addict as a way to manage the stress that may stem from strained relationships or priorities. The best way to avoid a relapse during recovery is to make lifestyle changes that don’t trigger a return to addictions amidst a stressful situation. One can practice mindfulness, engage in relaxation techniques, manage one’s time to avoid stressful situations, and imbibe healthy eating habits and exercise in their daily routine. EmotionsThere is an umpteen number of triggers that invoke a positive or negative emotional response. However, the stress associated with dealing with emotions daily can trigger urges without one even realizing. Often, one turns to a glass of alcohol or relies on prescription medications to put the mind at ease. It is not a permanent solution and prolonged use of these substances can cause more harm in the long run. One must learn and explore productive ways of controlling emotions better to avoid a relapse during recovery. For example, writing and maintaining a journal that contains one’s feelings and thoughts can act as a healthy outlet. Similarly, there are other healthy ways to channel one’s energy and manage emotional responses.Positive conditioningPeople who have addictions such as smoking or drinking may often find themselves in situations where a lit cigarette or a glass of wine can trigger a relapse. This is understandable considering these substances were the primary source of comfort and relaxation. However, with positive reinforcement and reconditioning one can train the mind and curb such urges. Relaxation doesn’t always mean techniques like yoga or meditation, it can also be pursuing your hobby. Counseling for group gatheringsBirthdays, parties, New Year’s events, and any celebration in general call for alcohol consumption and smoking. At times, these could be the very addictions one is recovering from, and in a social gathering, such temptations can be strong. However, a recovering addict should refrain from indulging in any of these as even a taste can turn into a relapse. For instance, a recovering alcoholic must avoid having a single drink as that could put him/her on a slippery slope to relapse. Here, one-on-one counseling can help prepare the mind to resist the urge. It is never healthy for a recovering addict to simply avoid socializing fearing a relapse.

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Understanding the impact of water contamination on health

Water is one of the most essential components for the survival of all living organisms. However, rapid urbanization and industrialization over the last few decades have led to an increase in the contamination of water sources in the country. Even with multiple facilities designed for filtration and purification, drinking water can have hazardous elements that increase the risk of known chronic diseases and severe illnesses. Here is a look at the consequences of water contamination: Health concerns As the human body is made up of nearly 70% water, most organs and functions are affected by consuming contaminated water. Here are the common consequences: Heavy metal contamination issues Heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and mercury increase the risk of developing cancer in the liver, bladder, or lungs. Long-term consumption can affect neurological development among kids affecting their cognitive skills. Women drinking contaminated water during pregnancy are at substantial risk of developing fetal malformations. Heavy metals like arsenic can also be introduced into breast milk, affecting the health of breastfed newborns. Respiratory issues and autoimmune disorders Byproducts of chlorine and other chemicals used for disinfection can mix with groundwater. These chemicals adversely affect the upper respiratory tract, causing chest pain and lung irritation. Repeated exposure also increases the risk of genetic abnormalities as the contamination affects the DNA and triggers cell mutation. Hazardous chemicals often increase the risk of developing autoimmune responses by the body, leading to autoimmune disorders. Pathogenic diseases Groundwater contamination leads to microbes and parasites entering homes. This kind of contamination is a product of unsafe agricultural practices, excessive animal husbandry, and even mismanagement of sewage waste. Common pathogens include E coli, Giardia, Salmonella, Legionella, and Cryptosporidium. The disease-causing pathogens increase the risk of diarrhea, blood toxicity, and dehydration linked to chronic illnesses. Common symptoms Regular intake of unsafe water can lead to the following symptoms: Eye infections, including trachoma, caused by pathogens Nausea, vomiting, respiratory difficulties, and stomach infections Organ damage and liver and kidney function failure Skin diseases due to exposure to metals like arsenic High blood pressure and increased risk of anemia due to lead poisoning Teeth and bone problems caused by the fluoride chemicals found in contaminated water Diarrhea, dysentery, typhoid, and cholera caused by pathogens Camp Lejeune water contamination The water at U.S Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina was heavily contaminated. It was consumed by on-site personnel for several years and may have been affected by diseases like cancer or autoimmune disorders. Veterans, reservists, and guardsmen on active duty (for at least 30 days) at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 qualify for Veterans Affairs health care benefits. Treatment is free for eligible health complications triggered by exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

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