Colorectal Cancer
Most colon cancers are adenocarcinomas (cancers that begin in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids) and form in the tissues of the colon. The rectum is the last several inches of the largest intestine closest to the anus, and it is in these tissues that rectal cancer may form. Cancers that affect either of these organs may also be called colorectal cancer.
The exact causes of colorectal cancer are not known, however, there are several risk factors that increase a persons chance of developing colorectal cancer. These are age, diet, polyps, personal medical history, family medical history, and ulcerative colitis. Research shows that colorectal cancer develops gradually from benign polyps. Early detection and removal of polyps may help to prevent colorectal cancer. Research has also shown that changes in certain genes raise the risk of colorectal cancer. People who have increased risk factors should ask their doctors when to begin checking for colorectal cancer through testing. Some of these tests are a fecal occult blood test, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, double contrast barium enema, and digital rectal exam.
Signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer include, change in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation, and feeling that bowel does not empty completely. Other symptoms include blood in the stool, stools that are narrower than usual, abdominal discomfort, weight loss, constant tiredness, and vomiting. To find the cause of the symptoms the physician will evaluate your medical history, perform a physical exam, and order diagnostic tests. Some of the tests include: x-rays, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, polypectomy, and biopsy. A biopsy is removing a sample of tissue to be sent to lab for a pathologist to look at under a microscope to be used to determine diagnosis. Once diagnosis is determined the doctor will want to know the stage or extent of the disease. Additional tests may be ordered to determine this.
Treatment of colorectal cancer depends on the size, location, and extent of the tumor, as well as patient’s general health. Patients are often treated by a team of specialists, including a gastroenterologist, surgeon, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologist. Several different types of treatment options can be used and are sometimes combined. These include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, biological therapy, and clinical trials. After diagnosis, a treatment plan that is best for you will then be decided upon by you and your healthcare team.
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May 18 Stroke & Brain Injury Support Group
WHO : Anybody who has had a stroke, TBI, or Brain Injury and their families, caregivers, or friends are welcome! WHAT YOU NEED : Computer or phone, a microphone, and speakers, a webcam (optional), & an internet connection. HOW TO JOIN : Visit our ...
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May 17 Look Good Feel Better
This has been postponed until further notice. Thank you for your patience as we work to keep our patients, staff, residents and community members safe during the coronavirus pandemic. Look Good Feel Better is a free program that teaches beauty ...
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May 20 Survivors of the Loss of Suicide Support Group
The death of a loved one by suicide presents special problems in grieving. There is often more shock, a greater sense of injustice, more guilt and blame, a heightened sense of helplessness; and these all tend to complicate the healing process for ...
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April 27 Al-Anon Group Meetings
This has been postponed until further notice. Thank you for your patience as we work to keep our patients, staff, residents, and community members safe during the coronavirus pandemic. Al-Anon meetings are for those affected by others' drinking. Here ...
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April 27 Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment Support Group
The Behavioral Health Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment Group meets every Tuesday from 5–6 pm. This outpatient group provides ongoing relapse prevention and aftercare services to our clients who have successfully completed one of our more ...
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April 22 Seeking Safety Group
Seeking Safety is a group open to women who have experienced trauma and have a history of problems with substance use. This group is a safe place to learn coping skills on how to manage daily life more effectively. Seeking Safety also provides ...
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"My wife (Gerie Helton) and I traveled to Cody for our anniversary trip to Yellowstone National Park. On September 23, 2018 which would have been the first day of our trip she dislocated her left hip ( which had been replaced in 2009 0r 2010) while putting on her socks ( of all things.) We were staying at the Sunrise Motor Inn which fortunately was a short ambulance ride to your emergency room. The experience we had beginning with the EMT's who responded to the ambulance call, to the emergency room, and the next day on the second floor of your fine hospital is what ..."
- Terry -
"ER department went to great lengths to make this "out of towner" feel comfortable. Dr. Polley and Nurse Sarah were very professional and had a great bedside manner. It was my worst asthma attack and I felt very confident that I was getting top notch care."
- Kelly -
"Had to bring my daughter for a shoulder injury, on July 4th. I was thoroughly impressed. The staff was absolutely great, very friendly and compassionate. They took great care of my daughter and explained the diagnosis and discharge orders with great detail. I only wish our ER back home could be this professional. I know this is a smaller town and more tight knit, but this hospital/ER could set an example for the rest of the country. Thanks to the staff, physician and PA for the excellent care."
- Chris -
"I was a walk in patient on 5/29/18. I had been sick for several days while on a month long motorhome trip. The reception staff was friendly and efficient. I was seen quickly by the PA on duty, Robert Lang. He listened to me, did an exam, diagnosed my illness as acute bronchitis, and prescribed the necessary medication. I was feeling better in just a few days which enabled me to enjoy the remainder of my trip. I was sick and a long way from home so I really appreciated the excellent and friendly care that I received."
- Bill