Thesigmoid colonis the section of the large intestine closest to the rectum and anus.
Some conditions that affect the sigmoid colon includecolon polyps,colon cancer,ulcerative colitis, anddiverticular disease.
If you have a problem with your sigmoid colon, you will likely have abdominal pain.
Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health
Sigmoid colon problems may also cause loss of appetite, nausea, and diarrhea or constipation.
Some people may see blood in their stool.
Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health
What Is the Sigmoid Colon’s Function?
Associated Sigmoid Colon Conditions
Many different health conditions can lead to problems of the sigmoid colon.
Colon Polyps
Acolon polypis a small growth forming in the colon’s linings.
Most are harmless, but some may lead to colon cancer over time.
Diverticulitis triggers when diverticula become inflamed or infected.
Most people do not experience symptoms of diverticulosis.
Should you have symptoms, they may include:
Diverticulitis will cause pain in the inflamed pouches.
An earlier diagnosis improves the potential for a full recovery.
They allow for the movement of lymph fluid, which plays a vital role in fighting off disease.
Colon cancer does not usually cause symptoms early on.
The most common key in of colonic volvulus is the sigmoid volvulus or twisting of the sigmoid colon.
Colonic volvulus is rare in the United States.
where people eat a high-fiber diet, which is a risk factor.It often affects adults ages 50 to 80.
Symptoms of colonic volvulus include:
Untreated colonic volvulus can lead to infection orshock.
Dyssynergic Defecation
Dyssynergic defecationis a condition that leads to chronic constipation.
For example, constipation can cause colon pain if the stool is too large or hard.
Diarrhea may also cause abdominal pain and cramping, which leads to colon pain.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive condition that causes symptoms that affect the colon.
The colon is made of muscle and is located just below the stomach.
It is a U-shaped tube that is around 5 feet long and consists of five major sections.
They can request tests to determine the source of your symptoms.
Depending on test results, they might refer you to agastroenterologistor other specialist.
What Is a Gastroenterologist?
A gastroenterologist is a medical doctor specializing in conditions that affect the digestive system.
However, this is not a permanent solution and a volvulus might reform.
Most polyps can be removed without the need for surgery.
Dyssynergic defecation is sometimes treated medically withBotox(onabotulinumtoxinA) injectionsof the anal muscles.
Acute constipation and diarrhea can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives and antidiarrheal medicines.
IBS can be treated with OTC and prescription medicines, depending on symptom severity.
If surgery is needed to treat diverticulitis, one of two procedures might be performed.
Removal
Large polyps carry the risk of becoming cancerous and will need to be surgically removed.
Most colon surgeries require recovery in the hospital and, in some cases, arehabilitation center.
You will also need follow-up visits with your healthcare provider.
But your full recovery may depend on the underlying cause.
For example, if you have cancer or IBD, you may need further treatment.
Summary
The sigmoid colon is located on the left side of the abdomen in the large intestine.
It is connected to the rectum and holds fecal matter until you have a bowel movement.
If you have a sigmoid colon problem, you may feel pain in the lower part of your abdomen.
Other symptoms might include bloody stools, bloating, loss of appetite, and fatigue.
Treatment options for sigmoid colon conditions may include sigmoidoscopy, medications, and various surgeries and procedures.
You should contact a healthcare provider or a gastroenterologist if you have symptoms of a colon condition.
Some of these can be life-threatening and require treatment as soon as possible.
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