Colorectal Diseases

Many diseases can hinder the usual role of the colon. More common side effects seen with colorectal diseases are bleeding, infection and perforation. For some colorectal diseases, a section of the colon can be removed as treatment. With the average colon being three to five feet long, this the surgery does not typically affect its functions.

Hemorrhoids

• Hemorrhoids are common in women during pregnancy or after childbirth. Hemorrhoids are caused by an increase of force to the veins in the anus. Increased force causes the veins to swell and enlarge. Common causes of hemorrhoids are straining during bowel movements, constipation, long periods of sitting and infections of the anus. Hemorrhoids can be treated with changes in diet and bowel habits, and some may require surgery if they are large and extremely painful.

Colonic Polyps

• Colon polyps are extra pieces of tissue that grow inside the large intestine, or colon. Colon polyps are usually not a danger; however, some may be or become malignant. In most cases, doctors remove polyps through a procedure called a colonoscopy. Those most at risk for colon polyps are over the age of 50, have a previous or family history of polyps or have a family history of colon cancer. Most people do not have symptoms; however, small traces of blood may be found on underwear or on toilet paper after a bowel movement.

Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

• Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (UC), result from constant swelling of the intestinal tract. Crohn's disease and UC are very similar. Both include symptoms such as swelling of the digestive tract lining, weight gain or loss, severe diarrhea, bloody stools, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Crohn's disease may occur anywhere in the digestive tract and can spread deep into the affected layers of tissue. UC normally affects the deepest lining of the large intestine, colon and rectum.

Diverticulosis

• Diverticula are small sacs that protrude outward from the colon or large intestine. Mild cramps, bloating and constipation are symptoms typically resolved by a high-fiber diet and mild pain relievers. When the diverticula become infected, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, cramping and constipation may occur. Diverticulitis can sometimes lead to bleeding, tears and blockages. Antibiotics are often used to treat the infection.

Colon Cancer

• Colon cancer begins in the rectum or colon and is often referred to as colorectal cancer. Lymphoma, characinoid tumors, melanoma and sarcomas are all types of colon cancer but are rare. Abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, intestinal obstruction, narrow stools, anemia, weight loss for no other reason and bloody stools are symptoms that may indicate colon cancer. Treatment for colon cancer includes chemotherapy, surgical removal of cancer cells and radiation therapy. Early screening can help detect colon cancer in the beginning stages before symptoms start and while it is still curable.