Colon Problems

Colon is the part of the large intestine between the cecum and the rectum, it distills water and salt from food before they are excreted from the body. The colon is not a major player in the process of digestion but it has its own importance. Colon does take in water, potassium and some fat soluble vitamins from the foodstuffs.Colon consists of four parts: the Ascending Colon, Transverse Colon, Descending Colon and Sigmoid Colon.

Types of Colon Problems

Undergoing a colon exam is the best way to make sure that the body is or is not suffering from colon issues. Problems related to the colon can cause bleeding in the anus, which may or may not be accompanied by severe stomach pain. Previously not many people knew about colon and the role it plays. However, today, when various colon complications have arisen, more and more people want to know about them. Mentioned below is a list of colon complications common in men and women.

Anal Fissure
A fissure is a dreadful tear in the anus. When the anal mucosa is stretched beyond its limit, it leads to an anal fissure.

Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids is a collection of swollen veins in the rectum or anus area, the condition can worsen and cause bleeding and itching.

Diverticulitis
In this condition pockets are formed on the wall of colon and these pockets may be reddened and may also bleed. Diverticulitis also causes severe stomach pain.

Bowel Diseases
Bowel diseases can also lead to various problems. Bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can also affect the colon in a severe way.

Intussusception
It is one of the most dreadful colon complication. In intussusception the small intestine collapses in to the upper colon.

Abnormal Growth of Organs
Abnormal growths near or on the colon can be non-cancerous, precancerous or cancerous. Precancerous means the organ is in the growing stages and can lead to colon cancer. An example of abnormal growth is a polyp. It can be a size of a golf ball or even larger. Polyps are found on the lining of the colon or rectum.

Signs of Colon Problems

Such symptoms are often impossible to ignore. If not treated on time they can cause life-threatening conditions. Colon cancer is the most frequent form of cancer detected in the U.S. The cancer usually starts from the upper colon takes around two decades to develop, making it impossible to detect in the early stages. Problems with colon in men, women and teenagers are common today. People never think that their colon could give them such health hazards until it starts giving trouble. Colon treatment is called colon cleansing but in recent times it is also known as colon hydrotherapy and colonic irrigation. Some common colon symptoms in women and men are given below

• You many suffer from an upset stomach, indigestion, nausea and vomiting.
• Irregular bowel habits such as constipation and diarrhea which can lead to severe pain.
• You might suffer from a gassy stomach as a result of Crohn's disease which causes difficulty in the digestion of various foodstuffs.
• The color of the stool can be bright red due to the bleeding within your intestines.
• Irregular weight loss is also a common symptom of a colon problem.
• The common symptoms of intussusception are nausea, vomiting and severe abdominal pain. As the condition advances the victim suffers from blood and mucus appearing in the stool and rectal bleeding. A palpable (can be touched or felt) tumor can also be a symptom of intussusception.

Diet for Colon Complications

Eating the right food stuffs can prove helpful for a troubled colon. Here's a look at a healthy diet for colon complications

• Increase the quantity of fiber in your daily diet. An average American gets about 11 grams a day, but nutritionists recommend 35 grams. An increase in fiber helps in smooth bowel movement and prevents constipation.
• Grain products, fresh vegetables and fruits have high content of fiber. Fiber supplements can also be taken with water.
• Have plenty of water and fruit juices to make sure a smooth colon. Minimize the intake of alcohol and aerated drinks. Avoid high fatty foods and caffeine.
• Exercise regularly to prevent constipation and other stomach complications.
• Laxatives should be a strict no-no, laxatives interfere with the smooth functioning of the colon.

People are advised to regularly check for colon problems, once they turn 50. Diagnosing colon complications at early stages will help you lead a long and healthy life.