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What Causes a Swollen Colon?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

A swollen colon can lead to a variety of bothersome symptoms and can have a variety of causes. A doctor may order a number of tests to determine the exact cause of the problem. Some possible causes of this condition include infection, blood flow problems, or natural disease processes affecting the colon. An introduction of chemicals into the colon, as in the case of an enema, may also lead to the swelling in the colon.

Infection is a common cause of a swollen colon. These infections can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or a parasite. Treatment differs according to the cause of the infection, but the swelling and inflammation typically subside once the infection has been properly treated. Common symptoms of a colon infection include diarrhea, which may or may not be bloody, and dehydration. If the dehydration becomes extreme, it may be necessary for the patient to be temporarily hospitalized.

Inflammatory bowel diseases can cause a swollen colon.
Inflammatory bowel diseases can cause a swollen colon.

Blood flow problems may sometimes lead to the development of a swollen colon. Ischemic colitis is a condition in which the arteries that supply the colon become narrowed, compromising blood flow. A condition known as a volvulus may also lead to blood flow problems as the colon becomes twisted. An incarcerated hernia is yet another medical condition that can lead to blood flow problems and swelling.

Infections, blood flow problems and inflammatory bowel diseases can all lead to a swollen colon.
Infections, blood flow problems and inflammatory bowel diseases can all lead to a swollen colon.

Inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease are known for causing a swollen colon. Inflammatory bowel disease is believed to be caused by autoimmune irregularities. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, spasms and cramping, and rectal bleeding. Dietary changes and the use of over-the-counter or prescription medications can help to control some of the symptoms, although there is no cure for this type of disease.

An enlarged colon typically calls for dietary changes that emphasize plenty of fresh vegetables and other foods that are high in fiber.
An enlarged colon typically calls for dietary changes that emphasize plenty of fresh vegetables and other foods that are high in fiber.

Other autoimmune disorders that may lead to the development of a swollen colon may include collagenous colitis or lymphocytic colitis. These conditions are relatively rare and seem to be most common among older women. The most common symptom of both of these conditions is watery diarrhea.

An introduction of chemicals into the colon can lead to swelling and irritation. This is one of the dangers of using an enema to induce a bowel movement. Occasional enema usage is less likely to have this effect than repetitive use. Chronic constipation should be treated by a doctor instead of self-medicating with an enema or other laxatives on a regular basis.

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    • Inflammatory bowel diseases can cause a swollen colon.
      By: maximino gomes
      Inflammatory bowel diseases can cause a swollen colon.
    • Infections, blood flow problems and inflammatory bowel diseases can all lead to a swollen colon.
      By: CLIPAREA.com
      Infections, blood flow problems and inflammatory bowel diseases can all lead to a swollen colon.
    • An enlarged colon typically calls for dietary changes that emphasize plenty of fresh vegetables and other foods that are high in fiber.
      By: Photographee.eu
      An enlarged colon typically calls for dietary changes that emphasize plenty of fresh vegetables and other foods that are high in fiber.
    • Infections caused by a virus, bacteria or parasite can lead to swelling of the colon.
      By: Kirill_M
      Infections caused by a virus, bacteria or parasite can lead to swelling of the colon.
    • High fever may be present with colon inflammation.
      By: Lucky Dragon USA
      High fever may be present with colon inflammation.
    • An enema may be used to induce a bowel movement.
      By: DimaP
      An enema may be used to induce a bowel movement.
    • Symptoms of an inflamed colon include abdominal pain.
      By: westfotos.de
      Symptoms of an inflamed colon include abdominal pain.