Inflammation of the Colon

Stomach ache is one of the more common complaints among people. Sometimes, this pain is difficult to explain or give a reason for. In case you are having regular stomach pain along with diarrhea or even constipation for a prolonged period, you might be suffering from an colon inflammation. This disease is also known as colitis and is caused in the large intestine (colon and rectum). Ulcerative colitis along with Crohn's disease are the major diseases affecting the large intestine. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the common technical name for these ailments, affecting the large intestine.

Colon Inflammation
The large intestine consists of the colon and the rectum. The main function of the colon is to absorb the water and other undigested food particles and pass them on to that part of the large intestine, where it is stored as feces. Later, it passes out from the anus in the form of motions or stools. Colon inflammation or colitis, occurs when there is a swelling on the outer lining of the colon. Sometimes, if the colon is inflated at some places, stomach ulcers may be formed. This condition is known as ulcerative colitis.

Our colon may be compared to a pipe which carries water. If the pipe gets choked due to accumulation of waste, then naturally, water cannot flow through it. It requires cleaning on a regular basis so as to prevent choking. The same is with our colon. It needs periodical cleaning. In case of inflammation, the outer walls of the colon become thin. There is a possibility of toxic waste escaping through these walls and getting deposited in the tissues of our body. This can cause various ailments like destruction of cells, improper digestion or difficulty in bowel movement.

Causes of Colon Inflammation
The exact cause of colon inflammation is not known till today. There are speculations though, which are doing the rounds, and the most convincing among them is that it is caused due to an unnatural activation of the immune system in the intestine. Normally, the immune system of the body produces certain proteins, which fight off any unwanted bacteria or virus that causes diseases. Once the job is done, the immune system stops production of these proteins. If by any chance, the immune system starts secreting these proteins abnormally, it may cause inflammation.

There are certain bacteria and viruses which produce toxins, that may make the colon cells secrete certain salts, which in turn is responsible for inflammation. There is however no conformation, as to exactly which type of bacteria or viruses cause this disease.

Symptoms of Colon Inflammation
Since the large intestine is also affected, there is a direct effect on the bowel movement. The common symptoms of colon inflammation are:

• Diarrhea or constipation for a long period.
• Blood and/or pain while passing stools
• Abdominal pain or problem of gas in the stomach.
• Fever and body pain
• Constant vomiting and nausea
• Weight loss, loss of appetite and constant fatigue.

How to Diagnose Colon Inflammation
To diagnose this disease, the doctor may ask you to undergo a blood and a stool test which will help him to identify abnormalities in the same. Colonoscopy and Sigmoidoscopy are widely used methods, by which the doctor gets a clear picture of the disease. In these methods the doctor inserts a small, specially designed telescope through the patient's anus and view the interior of the colon and the rectum to detect inflammation. The doctor may also take tissue samples of the intestine.

Treatment for Colon Inflammation
The treatment varies from person to person and mostly depends on the extent to which the inflammation has progressed. There are no specific medicines to treat or cure the disease. Mostly doctors prescribe medicines which minimize the effects of this disease. If at all, the condition of the person worsens, and medication alone is not sufficient to control the inflammation, then surgery is suggested.

Medication
Medicinal Drugs like, 5-ASA Compounds and corticosteroids are prescribed to reduce the inflammation on the colon. These drugs are usually prescribed for mild cases and have various levels of intensities. These drugs tend to suppress the inflammation and keep it at minimum possible level. Certain drugs are also prescribed, which curb the secreting capacity of the immune system. These drugs are called immuno-modulators, which help in reducing the inflammation and are sometimes given to patients, if steroids prove ineffective.

Surgery
In certain cases, where the medication is inadequate to treat the disease, doctors advise surgery for the patients. The surgery involves removing the blockage in the colon and rectum. During the surgery, the surgeon may either create a small opening in the abdomen and connect it to the two ends of the small intestine, bypassing the colon, facilitating the movement of bowels (Ileostomy); or remove the colon and attach another bag or 'pouch' which facilitates the movement of bowels in the usual manner, through the anus (Ileoanal anastomosis). Either of the two methods, is used depending on the extent to which the disease is causing trouble. The best part of the surgery is that, post operation the patient can lead a normal active life.

Inflammation of the colon can lead to colon cancer, but is very rare. Please take care of your colon by eating healthy food and also drinking clean, pure water. As is the case with health related issues, it is best to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.