Colon and rectal cancer care in Nashville, Tennessee, and Bowling Green, Kentucky
We provide supportive colorectal cancer treatments for you and your loved ones.
Whether you're dealing with a recent diagnosis, Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at TriStar Health physicians are here to answer your questions and help you get healthy.
Have cancer questions?
We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated, confidential helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7.
We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated, confidential helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer
While in many cases, there are no obvious symptoms with colon cancer, there are some that can be warning signs and should be discussed with your physician. These include:
- Any major change in bowel habits
- Constant feeling of fatigue or tiredness
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Feeling bowels do not empty completely
- Frequent gas pain, bloating or cramps
- General abdominal discomfort
- New onset anemia
- Red, black or tarry blood in the stool
- Stools that are narrower than usual
- Unintentional weight loss
Our colon and rectal cancer treatments and services
A diagnosis like colon or rectal cancer can be overwhelming. However, our team of surgeons, doctors and nurses are here to work with you to find the treatment plan that works for you and bring you the best possible results.
Treatments and services we provide
We understand that no one wants to discover that they have cancer. However, our team of specialists wants to provide you with comfort and confidence even when dealing with such a diagnosis. That's why we offer a range of services to prevent and treat cancers of the colon and rectum.
Prevention and diagnosis
If you are already aware of a family member who has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, or if you have undergone genetic testing that has revealed you are at risk, it's a good idea to undergo health exams to keep yourself safe. We provide several diagnostic services, including:
- Barium enema
- Biopsy
- Colonoscopy
- Digital rectal exam
- Fecal occult blood test
- Imaging services
- Sigmoidoscopy
- Virtual colonoscopy
- X-ray of the large intestine
When caught early, almost all cancers are highly treatable. This is why regular exams are so important. Reluctance to undergo a colonoscopy or any sort of rectal procedure is understandable. However, our team of experts and specialists is committed to maintaining your dignity and comfort as well as your health. An annual colonoscopy is recommended for men and women 50 to 75 years old. This screening requires a referral form from your doctor. If you don't have a doctor, find a physician online or call (615) 342-1919 for a free physician referral.
Treatment for colorectal cancer
If a standard diagnostic test returns with concerning or abnormal results, there are a variety of treatment options.
Colonoscopies, while primary used to diagnose, can also be performed to remove malignant and benign polyps from the colon.
In cases that are more severe, you may be offered and undergo a colectomy, a surgical procedure designed to remove all or part of the colon. This is intended to prevent the spread of certain diseases.
If lymph nodes are involved in your condition, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be an option for follow-up cancer care.
Needing treatment for cancer can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. However, we want to provide you with the care and support you deserve at all times. We will work with you to find a care plan specifically designed to your needs and your health.
Support for colorectal cancer
Dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be extremely isolating, but you are not alone. There are many cancer support groups in the greater Nashville area that are designed to provide you with guidance, friendship and peace of mind. We invite you to use our askSARAH helpline or ask your nurse navigator for more information regarding support in your area.
About HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network
Fighting cancer takes a team
HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network delivers you exceptional cancer care through cutting-edge, specialized treatments, multidisciplinary collaboration and care that is tailored to you. Our teams of passionate caregivers and global oncology experts across the United States and United Kingdom offer services and expertise that extend across many types of cancer. Together with the full support of HCA Healthcare – a leading provider of cancer care and research – we’re with you and your family from diagnosis through survivorship.
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