Bowel cancer is found in the large bowel of the human body and depending on where it is exactly located, it could either be colon or rectal cancer.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Patients who have been diagnosed with bowel cancer.
RECOVERY TIME
- The time of the surgery will vary depending on the type of surgery you are getting, the method used and related factors. On average the surgery should last anywhere from 1-2 hours.
- Chemotherapy is done is cycles, where you receive medication over the course of a few days and then let your body rest and recover. The duration of a cycle and the number of cycles you have to undergo depends on the medication you are receiving, the type of cancer you have, and the stage of cancer you are in. General factors such as your current age, health status and medical history also play a role.
- Radiotherapy sessions last for a for a couple of minutes and are carried out 5 days a week, for a few weeks. The total duration depends again on the cancer type and stage and other personal factors.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
- DThe general, as well as the specific risks associated with Bowel cancer surgery, are bleeding, infection, pain, blood clots, erectile dysfunction, leakage of the bowel, urination problems.
- Radiotherapy side effects include: fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, changes in skin, erectile dysfunction, infertility, changes in urination frequency.
- Complications of chemotherapy include hair loss, nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, mouth sores./li>
BEFORE TREATMENT
Have a initial consultation with your doctor.
Undergo all necessary screening and diagnostic tests.
Follow pre-op guidelines if you are undergoing surgery.
Arrange for some help at home whilst you’re undergoing treatment.DURING TREATMENT
Whilst undergoing surgery, you will be placed under general or local anaesthesia.
If you are undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy sessions, it may be comforting to have a loved one or caregiver to wait out for you.AFTER TREATMENT
Adhere to post-op guidelines put forth by your surgeon.
If you are suffering from any strong side effects of treatment, ask your physician if they can provide any additional support.
Rest as much as possible, and try to keep your stress levels low. These will help speed up your recovery.
Spend time with family and friends. You can also seek out emotional support through professional counselors or at a support group.
