The colon, or large intestine, is the final segment of your digestive tract. It absorbs water and electrolytes, compacts waste into stool, and houses beneficial bacteria. When its function is disrupted—by infection, inflammation, or functional disorders—you can experience pain, irregular bowel habits, and nutrient imbalances.
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Bowel Irregularity: Chronic constipation or diarrhea
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Abdominal Discomfort: Cramping, bloating, urgency
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Rectal Bleeding: Bright red or dark stool
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Mucus in Stool: Indicative of inflammation (IBD)
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Systemic Signs: Fatigue, weight loss, fever (with inflammatory disease)
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Functional motility disorder
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease
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Infections: Bacterial (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella), viral or parasitic
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Medication Effects: Antibiotic-associated diarrhea, NSAID-induced irritation
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Diet & Lifestyle: Low fiber intake, dehydration, high-fat diet
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Stress & Anxiety: Alters gut motility and sensitivity
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Trigger Foods: Dairy, gluten, spicy or fatty items
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Inadequate Hydration: Leads to harder stools and constipation
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Antibiotic Use: Disrupts healthy gut flora
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Hormonal Changes: Menstrual cycle can worsen IBS symptoms
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Colonoscopy: Direct visualization and biopsy of the colon lining
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Stool Tests: Identify pathogens, blood, or inflammatory markers (calprotectin)
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Blood Work: CBC, CRP/ESR to detect anemia or inflammation
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Imaging: CT or MRI enterography for IBD complications
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Functional Testing: Breath tests for bacterial overgrowth or lactose intolerance
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Laxatives & Stool Softeners: Polyethylene glycol (PEG), Lactulose
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Antidiarrheals: Loperamide, Racecadotril
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Antispasmodics: Dicyclomine, Hyoscine butylbromide—relieve cramping
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5-ASA Agents: Mesalazine, Sulfasalazine for ulcerative colitis
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Probiotics & Prebiotics: Restore healthy microbiota balance
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Immunomodulators: Azathioprine, Methotrexate for moderate–severe IBD
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Dietary Management: Low-FODMAP diet, high-fiber regimen, hydration
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Q1: How long before laxatives work?
A: Osmotic laxatives like PEG usually produce a bowel movement in 1–3 days; stimulant laxatives act faster (6–12 hours).
Q2: Are antispasmodics safe long-term?
A: Generally yes, but use under medical guidance to avoid dry mouth, blurred vision, or urinary retention.
Q3: Can probiotics help IBS?
A: Many patients report reduced bloating and pain; choose a multi-strain formula and use consistently for at least 4 weeks.
Q4: What diet is best for ulcerative colitis?
A: During flares, a low-residue diet may reduce symptoms; when in remission, gradually reintroduce fiber-rich foods.
Q5: When should I see a doctor?
A: Seek immediate care for severe abdominal pain, high fever, significant bleeding, or persistent weight loss.