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Bowel Diseases & Symptoms

The bowel is also termed the long intestine or colon. It, along with the bacteria that inhabit it, is responsible for the final stage of digestion, including elimination of solid wastes from the body. Bowel diseases can range from the annoying but infrequent bout of diarrhea or constipation to debilitating or life-threatening disorders, such as colon cancer.

  1. General Symptoms

    • General symptoms of bowel disease include bloating, cramping, constipation, abdominal pain, excessive gas, diarrhea, nausea, swelling in the abdomen, loss of appetite and blood in the stool.

    Inflammatory Bowel Disease

    • Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a term given to a group of disorders causing the intestine to inflame (become red and swollen). The main symptoms of IBD are abdominal cramps, diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood in the stool and weight loss. Colitis and Chron's disease are two examples of IBD. Both cause ulcers (painful sores) on the intestine.

    Irritable Bowel Syndrome

    • Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a "functional disorder," meaning there is nothing medically wrong with the bowel and there is no danger of IBS endangering one's health. That is small comfort, however, to those who suffer from IBS, which comes in two primary forms: IBS-C (constipation-prone) and IBS-D (diarrhea-prone). Doctors aren't sure what causes IBS, but it seems to be a case of the nerves and muscles of the bowel being extremely sensitive and overreacting to food.

    Bowel/Colon Cancer

    • Colon cancer is a deadly disease that affects tens of thousands annually. Rectal cancer is a similar disease that, together with colon cancer, is grouped under colorectal cancers. Tumors begin as benign polyps and, if not found and removed, grow into colon cancer. Symptoms of colorectal cancer include changes in bowel habits (such as constipation), cramping, excessive gas and abdominal pain.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The best method for preventing bowel disease is to get regular checkups, eat the recommended amount of fiber and when reaching the recommended age, have a colonoscopy every three to five years. It is also important to see a doctor if you experience any symptoms, including a prolonged change in bowel movement habits, abdominal pain or blood in your stool.

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