Why Does the Sigmoid Colon Hurt?
The sigmoid colon is the last section of the large intestine. It connects the descending colon to the rectum. The sigmoid colon is responsible for absorbing water and electrolytes from stool, and for storing stool until it can be eliminated.
There are a number of reasons why the sigmoid colon might hurt. Some of the most common causes include:
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is a condition in which small pouches, called diverticula, form in the wall of the sigmoid colon. These pouches can become inflamed and infected, leading to pain, fever, and other symptoms.
Ischemic Colitis
Ischemic colitis is a condition in which the blood supply to the sigmoid colon is blocked. This can lead to tissue damage and pain.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the two most common types of IBD. Both conditions can affect the sigmoid colon and cause pain.
Constipation
Constipation is a condition in which stool becomes hard and dry, making it difficult to pass. Constipation can put pressure on the sigmoid colon and cause pain.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or rectum. They can cause pain, itching, and bleeding.
Other Causes
Other causes of sigmoid colon pain include:
- Appendicitis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Endometriosis
- Ovarian cysts
- Uterine fibroids
When to See a Doctor
If you are experiencing pain in your sigmoid colon, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause. Some symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention include:
- Severe pain
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Bloody stool
- Inability to pass stool
Conclusion
There are a number of reasons why the sigmoid colon might hurt. If you are experiencing pain in your sigmoid colon, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause.
FAQs
- What are some common causes of sigmoid colon pain?
- What are some symptoms of sigmoid colon pain?
- When should I see a doctor for sigmoid colon pain?
- How is sigmoid colon pain diagnosed?
- How is sigmoid colon pain treated?
— Some common causes of sigmoid colon pain include diverticulitis, ischemic colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, constipation, and hemorrhoids.
— Some symptoms of sigmoid colon pain include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea.
— You should see a doctor for sigmoid colon pain if it is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, bloody stool, or inability to pass stool.
— Sigmoid colon pain is diagnosed based on a physical examination, a medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or colonoscopy.
— The treatment for sigmoid colon pain depends on the underlying cause. Treatment may include antibiotics, pain relievers, surgery, or lifestyle changes.