Diseases
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Medically,
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is known by a variety of other terms:
spastic colon, spastic colitis, mucous colitis and nervous or functional
bowel. Usually, it is a disorder of the large intestine (colon),
although other parts of the intestinal tract-even up to the stomach-can
be affected.
Colon Polyps and Cancer
Colon
cancer is the second leading cause of death in the US. There are two
major factors. One is your genetic makeup, which you cannot change.
However, there are other factors, including your diet, which can be
changed.
Colon Gas and Flatus
Colon
gas and flatus are normal. Some of the bacteria that live in the colon
are gas formers. Others, including certain very beneficial ones that
confer health benefits, are not. Your diet can make the difference.
Diverticulosis
Diverticuli
are pockets that balloon out from the bowel. They occur mostly in the
lower colon and result from longstanding high pressures in this part of
the bowel. At any stage, steps can be taken to minimize the problems of
diverticulosis and, hopefully, prevent diverticulitis.
Crohns Disease
This
chronic inflammation disorder of the intestine is caused in part by a
person's genetic makeup. This cannot be changed. However, the bacteria
within the gut are also critically important. Understanding how the
foods you eat interact with the colon bacteria may make a difference.
Ulcerative Colitis
This
is a chronic, recurrent disorder of the lining of the rectum and/or the
colon above the rectum. There are effective treatments available once
the diagnosis is made.
Constipation
Everyone
has her or his own definition of constipation. This disorder can be
caused by many things, including diet, drugs and diseases. By working
with your physician, there is usually a good outcome. The diet and fiber
may be an important part of the treatment program.
Diarrhea
Almost
everyone will have loose bowels at some time. When it becomes
persistent or awakens you, then it is time to find out why. An answer is
usually found and a solution usually follows.
Rectal Bleeding
Rectal
bleeding is a sign that something is wrong. It is usually a minor
problem such as hemorrhoids or an anal fissure. However, colon cancer
and bleeding colitis need to be ruled out. You need to seek medical
advice.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids,
also known as piles, are very common. Early on, simple dietary steps
can be taken, which can treat or prevent them. When they are more
severe, surgery may be necessary.
Anal Fissure, Fistula and Abscess
The
anal canal can be the site of a fissure, which is a tear in the tissue.
This is usually painful and it may cause a spot of bleeding. A fistula
is a draining track that can occur in this area.
