GI Education

The colon, called the large intestine is divided into four parts, the ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon and the sigmoid colon.   The colon removes water, salt and nutrients forming the stool.

Common colon disorders:

Colitis

Colitis is caused by inflammatory bowel disease, the result is an inflamed or swollen colon.

Colon cancer

Colon cancer starts in the glands in the lining of the colon and rectum.  Typically colon cancer starts as benign cancer polyps that slowly develop into cancer.  Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the U.S.  Early diagnosis is key to help prevent and treat the spread of colorectal cancer.

Crohn’s disease

An inflammatory disease that causes abdominal pain and diarrhea, effecting the colon and intestines.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea causes stool to be frequent, loose and watery, usually from infections of the colon or small intestine.

Diverticulitis and Diverticulosis

When diverticuli become inflamed or infected causing abdominal pain, constipation or bleeding.

Salmonellosis

When bacteria called salmonella contaminates food and infects the intestine.  Salmonella causes diarrhea and stomach cramping.

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disease that affects the colon and rectum.