Bowel which side

When stool is too large or too hard, it cannot pass out of the colon and rectum comfortably. This can cause abdominal pain and pain near the rectum and anus. Sometimes, hard stools can cause tears in the lining of the anus, or anal fissures. This can lead to bleeding and pain with bowel movements.

People with constipation may need more fiber in their diet. They can help soften the stool and allow it to pass more easily by:. Certain medications can also cause constipation. A person with medication-related constipation should talk with their doctor if this side effect is causing them distress. Diarrhea has a variety of potential causes, ranging from food intolerances to viruses and bacteria. These fast contractions may cause abdominal pain and cramping that leads to colon pain.

Loose stools may also irritate the anus, causing burning and stinging. Diarrhea is often short lived if a virus or food intolerance causes it.

However, some bacteria and illnesses that cause diarrhea can be severe and may lead to dehydration. Treatment options for mild diarrhea may include electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration and a bland diet. However, a child should not use OTC medicines without their parent or caregiver first consulting a doctor. Irritable bowel syndrome IBS is a digestive condition with symptoms that often affect the colon.

IBS can cause stomach pain and cramping in the colon, usually around the time of a bowel movement. Healthcare professionals do not currently know the exact cause of IBS. However, there may be a link between IBS and increased sensitivity of the intestines or immune system. Diverticulosis is a condition wherein the colon forms small pouches, or sacs, in its walls. If any of these sacs become inflamed, it can cause pain, bleeding, and other symptoms. The second step in treating colon pain is to make other lifestyle changes, eliminating behaviors that adversely affect colon health, such as:.

The third step is to review medications you take. If possible, stop using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen which can increase inflammation and affect the intestinal lining. Your doctor can recommend alternatives. Dietary fiber speeds up the process of waste elimination, helping to cut down on constipation and inflammation.

Without enough roughage to keep the bowel moving, stools can become hard and painful. With enough fiber, your colon reduces the strain and pressure it exerts on the abdomen and veins, reducing the risk of:. Dehydration can contribute to hard, painful stools and slow, blocked bowel movements.

The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine recommend drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day to maintain proper hydration. A study found that regular exercise can reduce the risk of diverticulitis in men by up to 37 percent. Remember that anything you eat has an impact on your body.

Eating the typical western diet rich in fats and sugar and low in fiber adds to inflammation, constipation, and pain that can trigger uncomfortable bowel diseases. Bowel cancer means cancer that starts in the colon large bowel or back passage rectum. About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since Questions about cancer? Call freephone 9 to 5 Monday to Friday or email us. Skip to main content. Home About cancer Bowel cancer What is bowel cancer? Read more about what cancer is.

Content not working due to cookie settings. Manage your cookie settings here. There are two main parts to the bowel, the small bowel and the large bowel. More than 9 out of 10 people who develop bowel cancer in the UK are over the age of Anal cancer section. Small bowel cancer section. Find out about bowel cancer treatment. Anal cancer. Small bowel cancer. Accessed Jan.

Feldman M, et al. Colorectal cancer. Philadelphia, Pa. Niederhuber JE, et al. In: Abeloff's Clinical Oncology. Colon cancer treatment PDQ — Patient version. National Cancer Institute. Macrae FA.

Colorectal cancer: Epidemiology, risk factors and protective factors. Accessed Feb. Kandel P, et al. Colorectal endoscopic mucosal resection EMR. Palliative care. Moertel CG, et al. Levamisole and fluorouracil for adjuvant therapy of resected colon carcinoma.

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