Gastric & colorectal cancer
12 articles shown
When Stool Turns Black or Bloody and Dizziness Meets a Falling Blood Pressure — Reading the Warning Signs of GI Bleeding in Cancer Patients
In cancer patients, black (melena) or red bloody stool together with dizziness, falling blood pressure, and a fast pulse can signal dangerous gastrointestinal bleeding. Since a transfusion refills blood but does not stop the source, this article outlines the warning signs to watch for and what to prepare when heading to the emergency room.
Scans Look Clean — So Why Recommend Removing the Stomach? Understanding the Limits of Imaging and Biopsy in Advanced Gastric Cancer
Even when CT, endoscopy, and biopsy come back clean after chemotherapy, finely scattered cancer cells can escape detection. This piece explains the difference between a clinical and a complete response, why surgery is often advised in advanced gastric cancer, and what to ask your care team.
Same FOLFIRI, Different Targeted Partner: How RAS Status and Tumor Location Shape Colorectal Cancer Chemotherapy
With the same FOLFIRI backbone, the added targeted drug (anti-EGFR vs anti-angiogenic) depends on RAS/BRAF mutation status, tumor location, and trial participation. This explains why combinations differ between patients.
When Acne-Like Rash and Dry Skin Appear During Treatment: Managing Skin Side Effects of EGFR-Inhibitor Targeted Therapy
A plain-language guide to the common acne-like rash and dry skin caused by EGFR-inhibitor targeted therapy in colorectal cancer, with practical skin-care tips and warning signs to report.
When IV and Oral Chemo Combine and Side Effects Pile Up at Once — Understanding the Cumulative Burden of Combination Therapy
In colorectal cancer, 'IV plus oral' combination chemo can bring overlapping side effects — mouth sores, hand-foot changes, nausea — that pile up as cycles accumulate. Dose adjustment and delays are normal tools, and recording symptom severity to share with your team supports finishing treatment safely.
When the Day's Blood Test Decides Whether You Get Chemo — Understanding Treatment Delays Due to Low Counts
Why a blood test on the day of chemotherapy determines whether treatment proceeds, and what it means when low counts cause a delay.
When Tingling and Numb Hands and Feet Make You Stumble on the Stairs — Understanding Oxaliplatin Peripheral Neuropathy and Staying Safe
Oxaliplatin commonly causes tingling and numbness in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy). This piece explains the acute and chronic patterns, offers practical tips to reduce stair and fall risk, and lists warning signs to report to your care team.
Heading Out for the Day Without Bathroom Worries — Enjoying Outings After Ostomy Reversal
A practical guide to reducing bathroom worries on outings after ostomy reversal. It explains the gastrocolic reflex behind post-meal urges, and offers tips on timing meals to your route, keeping pre-activity meals lighter, packing a small kit, choosing aisle seats, and recognizing dehydration or fever signs that warrant calling your care team.
When Hands and Feet Stay Swollen as Chemotherapy Continues — Understanding Peripheral Edema
As chemotherapy continues, swelling in the hands and feet — peripheral edema — can arise from overlapping causes such as low albumin, medications, reduced activity, and organ function. One-sided swelling, pain, or breathlessness warrants prompt review. Gentle self-care helps, but avoid taking diuretics or supplements on your own and consult your care team.
A Bulge Near Your Stoma or Groin After Repeated Abdominal Surgery — Understanding Incisional, Parastomal, and Inguinal Hernias
Incisional, parastomal, and inguinal hernias are common in cancer patients who have had repeated abdominal surgery or a stoma. This article explains why they form, the warning signs of incarceration or strangulation that need urgent care, and general points on treatment and daily care.
When the Scan Looks Clean in Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer — Does 'Complete Remission' Mean Cured?
In stage 4 colorectal cancer, a CT scan showing no visible tumor is encouraging, but this clinical complete response differs from a pathologic complete response and is not the same as a cure. This piece explains the distinction and the role of conversion therapy.
Do Biomarker Results Come Back With the Biopsy? Understanding Companion Testing Before Gastric Cancer Treatment
Biomarkers such as HER2, PD-L1, MSI/MMR, and CLDN18.2 guide gastric cancer treatment. This article explains whether they come back with the biopsy, why some take longer, and what to check before the first chemotherapy.