Stage IV colon cancer, also known as metastatic colon cancer, is a serious and advanced form of the disease. 

At this stage, cancer cells have spread beyond the colon to distant organs or lymph nodes. If you or somebody you love has been diagnosed, understanding the diagnosis and treatment options may seem overwhelming. Here's what you should know.

What Causes Stage IV Colon Cancer?

Stage IV colon cancer occurs when cancer cells that develop in the walls of your large intestine, also known as your colon or rectum, spread to other parts of your body. This can occur via the bloodstream or the lymphatic system.

What Are the Symptoms of Stage IV Colon Cancer?

The symptoms of stage IV colon cancer may depend on where the spreading cells have ended up. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Other symptoms may include fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and blood in your stool.

How Is Stage IV Colon Cancer Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of stage IV colon cancer typically begins with an imaging test such as a CT scan or MRI. Your doctor may also order blood tests or a biopsy in order to confirm the diagnosis.

A biopsy is a procedure in which a sample of tissue is taken from the suspected cancerous area and examined under a microscope. This will help your doctor determine if cancer cells are present and if so, what type of cancer they are.

What Are the Treatment Options for Stage IV Colon Cancer?

Treatment options for stage IV colon cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Your doctor will work with you to come up with a treatment plan that best fits your needs.

Your doctor may recommend immunotherapy, which is a form of treatment that uses drugs to boost your body's natural immune system in order to fight cancer cells.

 In some cases, doctors may also recommend targeted therapy, which uses drugs that target specific cancer cells and leave healthy cells unharmed.

Should You Consider Supportive Care?

Supportive care is an important part of cancer treatment and can help you manage the side effects of your treatment. Examples of supportive care may include physical therapy, nutrition counseling, pain management, and psychological support.

Talk to Your Doctor About Colon Cancer Treatment

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer, it's important to speak to your doctor about all of your treatment options.

Understanding the diagnosis and developing a comprehensive treatment plan can help you feel more in control and better prepared to fight cancer.