How to Cope With Colon Cancer

The keys to coping with colon cancer are rigorous planning, gaining understanding of the disease, continual testing and treatment and a strong support group. You should be empowered each step of the way in coping with disease.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Prepare for Tests and Consultations

1. Begin to have consultations and discussions with experts on the subject. Expect to gain a better outlook regarding the situation and the disease. Educate yourself and increase understanding of the disease.

2. Prepare to go through a set of colon cancer tests and treatments while reflecting on knowledge you have gained.

3. Realize that the location of the rectum and colon presents an uncomfortable situation for cancer patients. Be aware that some people suspected to have colon cancer delay testing because they view colon cancer testing as embarrassing. Overcome your squeamishness and get tested. It may save your life.

4. Know colon cancer tests usually require a stool sample. Ask the doctor to recommend a home-based fecal occult blood test kit, to check for blood in fecal waste.

5. Expect monitoring and scanning of the rectal area during advanced colon cancer tests. Prepare for future tests.

6. Understand that doctors recommend different treatment choices based on the stage of the cancer. Realize the patient may choose colon cancer treatments.

Learn About the Disease and Testing Procedures

7. Discuss side effects of colon cancer treatments with the doctor. Talk with family and friends regarding financial concerns about treatments. Know various colon cancer treatments involve different factors such as a patient's age, overall health, size and location of the tumor, stage of colon cancer and a patient's personal concerns and needs.

8. Remember that your doctors may suggest surgery to remove a tumor and most of the cancer cells. Colostomy involves taking out most or all of the rectum and colon. A colostomy leaves devastating side effects for unprepared colon cancer patients, although surgery is an effective treatment. You will need artificial methods to remove fecal waste after colostomy.

9. Trust the doctor when he says everything will be fine. Weigh what is best for you after the doctor offer the choice of surgery. Talk to your peers so they will understand your plight if you expect they will reject you. Don't let their reactions deter you from doing what's best for your health.

Tips & Warnings

• Each treatment decision should develop from a comfortable decision made by the patient with help from a support group.
• Though the ordeal of having colostomy is a giant task, remember that the treatment will benefit you long term.
• Refuse to let others make decisions for you; decide on your own to avoid feeling helpless.

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