Contents
and Health
What Is Rectal Cancer?
Rectal cancer is a term that describes an abnormal growth of cells within the rectum, which is the area within the lower digestive tract between the anus and the end of the colon. It can either begin in the colon or the rectum, and is usually categorized as either an adenocarcinoma or a sarcoma.
Symptoms Of Rectal Cancer
Common symptoms of rectal cancer are rectal and/or abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, fatigue, and unintentional weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
Treatment For Rectal Cancer
Treatment options for rectal cancer depend on how far it has progressed. Common treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery to remove the cancerous cells.
Managing Treatment Side Effects and Living With Rectal Cancer
Nutrition: Eating a balanced, nutritious diet is essential when undergoing rectal cancer treatments. Eating small, frequent meals can help with nausea and fatigue, while avoiding foods high in fat and sugar can help maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise: Exercise can help reduce symptoms, boost your energy and overall mental health, and improve your recovery time. If it’s hard to get motivated, try to break your exercise into manageable chunks a few times a week.
Rest and Relaxation: Getting enough sleep and rest can help with some of the mental and physical challenges associated with living with rectal cancer. This means avoiding too much caffeine, limiting your exposure to stress, and setting aside time in your schedule to relax and unwind.
Conclusion
Living with rectal cancer can be a difficult process, both physically and emotionally, but there are ways to manage the physical symptoms and treatment side effects. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting plenty of rest and relaxation can be helpful for managing your symptoms and promoting overall health.