Hawaii Gastroenterology Specialists
Gastroenterology located in Aiea, HI & Honolulu, HI
When you’re at risk for colorectal cancer, early diagnosis is essential to treatment success. The board-certified gastroenterologists at Hawaii Gastroenterology Specialists strive to bring patients in Honolulu and Aiea, Hawaii the best and most comprehensive care possible. From regular screenings to innovative cancer treatment options, the practice handles your care every step of the way. To learn more about preventing and treating colorectal cancer, call the office today to schedule your appointment or go online to book.
Colorectal Cancer Q & A
What is Colorectal Cancer?Colorectal cancer develops in the inner lining of your rectum or colon, then slowly spreads to the outer layers. In most cases, this initial growth is an adenoma, a specific type of polyp that turns cancerous.
When cancer develops in the colon (the first 4-5 feet of your large intestine), it’s called colon cancer. When cancer starts in your rectum (the last few inches of your intestine which feed into your anus), it’s often referred to as rectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is an umbrella term that includes both of these cancers.
What are the Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?At the beginning stages of colorectal cancer, you may not experience any symptoms. Once the cancer reaches stage II, symptoms start to manifest. The first noticeable symptoms are often related to the function of the colon or rectum and can include:
- Changes in bowel regularity
- Constipation and/or diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Abdominal bloating
- Abdominal cramping
- Feeling like you can’t completely empty your bowels
- Thinner than normal stools
If you experience any of these local symptoms and they don’t improve over time, contact Hawaii Gastroenterology Specialists.
When you have colorectal cancer, you may also experience body-wide symptoms. These can include things like unexplained loss of appetite or weight, nausea, or jaundice.
Can You Treat Colorectal Cancer?Because colorectal cancer may not develop noticeable symptoms until it progresses, Hawaii Gastroenterology Specialists recommends regular cancer screenings, especially for high-risk patients.
If your gastroenterologist thinks that you may have colorectal cancer, they may request you have a colonoscopy, stool test, or PET/CT scan or undergo a biopsy to make an accurate and timely diagnosis.
If cancer is confirmed, your doctor determines the best course of treatment based on multiple factors, including your age, symptoms, and stage of cancer. If possible, minimally invasive procedures are the optimal choice to preserve bladder, bowel, and sexual function.
Your doctor may perform:
- Laparoscopic surgery
- Robotic surgery
- Proton beam therapy
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Cryosurgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
The team at Hawaii Gastroenterology Specialists may recommend one of these treatments or combine treatments to bring you the best possible outcomes.
If you’re at risk for developing colorectal cancer, it’s time to schedule an appointment with board-certified specialists. Call Hawaii Gastroenterology Specialists today or go online to book your initial consultation.