Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer: Now What?
A colorectal cancer diagnosis can be surprising, especially if you went in for a routine screening colonoscopy that identified cancerous polyps. With a diagnosis comes many questions; how likely am I to recover fully, how long does treatment take, and what types of therapies are needed? We are here to guide you through the initial process after diagnosis so that you can be prepared for what to do before your first appointment and what to expect during your initial consultation with Affiliated Oncologists.
What Kind of Doctor Should I See for Colon and Rectal Cancers?
For some patients, colorectal cancer is detected after a colonoscopy. If that is the case, scheduling an appointment with a medical oncologist is the next step. The cancer doctor will determine if the cancer has moved to lymph nodes and/or other areas of the body outside of the colon or rectum. Typically, this involves imaging and possibly testing the lymph nodes near the groin. Based on the information from the biopsy and the additional testing, the oncologist can determine the stage of colorectal cancer.
The cancer doctor who typically oversees the colorectal cancer treatment process is a medical oncologist. S/He will consult with other experts on the cancer treatment team, such as a radiation oncologist and surgeon. Together they will discuss each patient’s case and the best next steps based on several factors, such as the location and size of the tumor and if it has spread (metastasized) to other areas of the body.
Because surgery is not recommended for every colorectal cancer patient, it’s a good idea to meet with the medical oncologist first. And then consult with the surgeon if the cancer experts feel that surgery would be necessary and an effective part of the treatment process.
Consulting with a medical oncologist is the first step toward deciding the colorectal cancer treatment that is best for your situation.
Which Colorectal Cancer Treatments Will I Receive?
Some people receive a combination of treatments. Clinical trials may also be part of treatment depending on each patient's unique situation. You and your oncologist will work together to decide on the best colorectal cancer treatment plan for you.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Colorectal Cancers
Your colorectal cancer doctor will walk you through the treatment options based on the location of the tumor, the stage, and other factors. Non-surgical treatment for colorectal cancer includes:
Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy
Targeted therapy
Immunotherapy
You and your oncologist at Affiliated Oncologists in the South Chicago area will work together to create a personalized colorectal cancer treatment plan.
Surgery for Colon and Rectal Cancers
There are several surgery methods used to remove colorectal cancer. Not every colon cancer patient is going to have surgery. And some patients with early-stage cancer have the cancerous polyps removed during the colonoscopy process.
Most rectal cancer patients will have some type of surgery to remove the tumor.
The right surgery method and timing for you depend on the type and stage of your cancer, where it’s located in the colon or rectum, the potential side effects of surgery, and your overall health.
Are There Colorectal Cancer Clinical Trials Available in the South Chicago Suburbs?
Affiliated Oncologists make clinical trials available to patients without the need to travel far. We offer access to the latest clinical trials in several convenient locations. Colon and rectal cancer clinical trials help uncover various new treatment options and give many patients the opportunity to receive newly developed therapies or investigational drugs not yet available outside of the study. Find out about any available colorectal cancer trials and if a clinical trial is right for you.
Can I Wait to Make Decisions About My Treatment?
Making well-informed decisions about your treatment without delay is important. However, don’t act without consulting with an oncologist to review a recommended cancer treatment plan. This gives you a chance to ask all of the questions you can think of.
It’s also normal to get a second opinion. There is time, in most cases, to do this after a diagnosis. The oncologists at Affiliated Oncologists are available for initial consultations and second opinions.
Preparing for the First Oncology Appointment
At the first oncology appointment, you get a lot of information in a short period of time. We highly recommend taking a relative or friend with you to your first appointment, as support is important during your cancer journey. They can be there to provide emotional support, listen, and help take notes on all the information you will be discussing.
Here are some useful tips on how you can remember what you're told and keep track of questions you'd like to ask your colorectal cancer specialist.
Keep a Notebook
To help stay organized, we suggest having a notebook to keep a record of important details. This can include notes on how you’re feeling and what medicines or supplements you take. You should also write down any questions, thoughts, or observations you think of between appointments. Do your best to put a date so you can keep your thoughts and notes organized.
If you prefer something other than pen and paper, consider audio recordings taken with your phone. Whatever method suits you best is fine—just pick one method and commit to using it regularly. Having well-documented information (and on hand) is one of the best ways to keep the lines of communication open between you and your doctors.
Other Questions to Ask Your Cancer Specialist
Is it colon cancer or rectal cancer?
Will I need more tests?
Will I need a colostomy bag? Will it be permanent?
Do I need to change my diet?
Will cancer treatment affect my daily life?
What are the treatment options for my colon or rectal cancer?
What are the side effects of these treatment options?
Does my colorectal cancer treatment plan include surgery?
Do my siblings or children have an increased risk of colon or rectal cancer?
Should I exercise during chemotherapy or radiation treatments?
Will I need to see other medical specialists as part of therapy?
Things to Share with Your Oncologist During Your First Visit
Information about any family members with this type of cancer or other types of cancer that seem to run in your family, even if a genetic connection has not been proven. There are some genetic connections to colorectal cancer that may give your oncologist some insight.
The names of current medications you are taking, including dosages. Taking photos of the bottles before you go to your appointment is a helpful way to keep track of them.
The names of any nutritional supplements, vitamins, and minerals you are taking. It is not uncommon for there to be interactions with some of the cancer treatment drugs.
Details about your smoking history, even if it’s been a while since you smoked.
History of heavy alcohol use or drug use.
Your lifestyle habits are important for the doctor to understand. Be honest about your diet, exercise, rest, stress levels, etc.
You are Not Alone in Your Colorectal Cancer Journey
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer and live in the South Chicago Suburbs, the cancer care team at Affiliated Oncologists is here to support you every step of the way. We provide our patients with the latest colorectal cancer treatments and helpful resources.
Our oncologists specialize in colorectal cancer care and are ready to talk to you about your diagnosis and personalized treatment options. Our cancer centers are located throughout South Chicago, including Chicago Ridge, Mokena, Hazel Crest, Palos Heights, and Oak Lawn.