Who knew a small polyp could cause such a big problem? One day you were feeling great and went in for a routine colonoscopy at Colon & Rectal Surgery Associates, and a few days later you learned you had cancer. Now you’re having tests performed, visiting a bevy of doctors, and wondering when your life will return to normal.

Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer today. Having this type of cancer typically means digestive problems, fatigue, and pain. Often, patients have to stop working due to the effects and stress of the cancer treatments.

What Happens After a Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis?

Although no two experiences are ever the same, those with colorectal cancer may face the same three steps in treating the disease:

  • Removal. Typically, the first step in managing colorectal cancer is removing the polyps during a colonoscopy or laparoscopic surgery. If the cancer has grown into or through the colon, you may need a partial colectomy to remove the part of your colon that contains the cancer.
  • Chemotherapy. People with stage II, III, and IV colorectal cancers typically undergo chemotherapy to remove cancer cells that have spread to the lymph nodes and other parts of the body, such as the lungs or the liver.
  • Medicine. Cancer patients often take different courses of medication to accompany other treatments. The medication may help with cancer that is resistant to treatment or is progressing.

How Your Quality of Life Is Affected

In addition to dealing with the cancer itself, you may also experience more stress due to lost income. If you’re too sick to work, it will become more difficult for you to pay your medical bills and support your family. Fortunately, Social Security may be able to help.

You may qualify to receive Social Security if you have colorectal cancer, and the attorneys of Johnson and Gilbert may be able to help you get the benefits you need. Contact us today to learn how we have helped others in the Daytona Beach area and may be able to help you.

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