Bowel spastic disease

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Posted by Master, Doctor Mai Vien Phuong - Department of Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital

Colon spasms are often associated with irritable bowel syndrome (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). These contractions can be a sign or symptom of this condition. In fact, colon spasms are so common with Irritable Bowel Syndrome that the bowel disorder is sometimes referred to as “spastic colon.” However, not everyone with irritable bowel syndrome experiences increased peristalsis or bowel movements, so the term does not apply to everyone with irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Overview

Colon spasm is a spontaneous and sudden contraction of the muscles in the colon (colon). The colon is part of the large intestine. It is responsible for the formation, storage and excretion of feces.
In addition to irritable bowel syndrome, colon spasms can be the result of other underlying health problems or conditions. Colon spasms can also occur for no identifiable reason.
The muscles of the colon contract to help move stool along the lower part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. During a colonic spasm, the muscles lining the colon constrict or contract in a disorganized manner. These contractions are often painful and obvious, while normal contractions are rarely noticed.
Colon spasms can cause symptoms other than pain. Abdominal cramps, a sudden need to use the toilet, and bloating are common symptoms of colon spasms. What you experience may depend on the cause of the spasm and the severity of the spasm.

2. How does a colon spasm feel?

The severity of colon spasm symptoms can vary from person to person. Here are some possible signs and symptoms of colon spasms:
Painful. Sudden severe abdominal pain, especially in the lower and left abdomen, is common with colon spasms. The pain can vary in intensity with each contraction. Bloating or bloating. These signs can occur at any time of the day, regardless of diet. Sudden urge to use the restroom. Muscle contractions of the spasmodic colon can speed up bowel movements, so when contractions occur, you may find yourself needing to go to the bathroom quickly. Changes in bowel movements. Alternating between diarrhea and constipation during bowel movements can occur in people with a spastic colon. Liquid stools. Inconsistent movements can prevent your body from forming adequate stools, so stools may be loose. Mucus in stools. Clear or white mucus may appear during bowel movements if you have colon spasms. Mucus in the stool is also a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome.

3. Causes of colon spasm

Colon spasms are often a symptom of an underlying health condition. Irritable bowel syndrome is the most common underlying health condition that can cause colon spasms. Other conditions can also cause these contractions. These include:
Ulcerative colitis Crohn's disease An enlarged, or dilated, colon Bacterial infection in the intestinal tract Intestinal obstruction Colon spasms have many of the same symptoms as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. That's why it's important that you make an appointment with your doctor and work to determine if your symptoms are the result of spasms or an underlying condition like Irritable Bowel Syndrome. likes to cause.
It is not clear why colon spasms occur, even if the underlying cause is identified.
Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms get worse when you experience greater-than-normal stress and anxiety or when you eat foods high in fat, among other triggers. These same events can lead to colon spasms, but the link is not entirely clear.

4. Treatment Options

Treatment of spasmodic colon is aimed at reducing symptoms and preventing colon complications. Currently, there is no cure or way to permanently prevent colon spasms from occurring.
If you have received a diagnosis of colon spasms from your doctor, they can talk to you about the following types of colon spasm treatments:
Lifestyle changes
Stress management. Learn to manage stress and reduce its impact on your mental and physical health when it happens. This can help prevent future colon spasms.
Move more. Increasing physical activity and exercising more often can help keep the digestive tract functioning at its best.
Eat lots of fiber. Fiber adds bulk to your stools. This can reduce your chances of having loose or viscous stools. Fiber is found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and legumes. Cutting fat can also reduce colon irritation. These changes can calm colon spasms and prevent future contractions.
Limit or quit alcohol and tobacco. Both of these products can interfere with healthy digestive function, so cutting back or eliminating them entirely can help prevent future spasms.
Medical options
Antidiarrheal medicine. Both over-the-counter and prescription anti-diarrheal medications can help ease some of the symptoms of colon spasms and stop diarrhea.
Antispasmodics. These medications are designed to calm muscles and relieve severe contractions caused by a spastic colon.

5. Complications and when to see a doctor

Colon spasms can be severe one time and barely noticeable the next. It's not clear why they vary in severity, but they're rarely a sign of a serious problem.
The only time you may need to seek immediate medical attention if you have a colon spasm is when you have signs of a bowel obstruction or bowel obstruction. Symptoms of a blockage include:
Severe stomach or abdominal pain Nausea Vomiting Inability to have a bowel movement Fluid and stool buildup in your intestines can be a life-threatening condition if it's not treated properly and quickly.
However, if you have frequent colon cramps or other symptoms, see your doctor. They may be looking for a possible explanation. If a diagnosis is made, you and your doctor can begin treatment to prevent future spasms. If the spasms continue, you and your doctor can make a plan to manage any side effects of the spasms.
What is the outlook?
Colon spasms are common. They are often linked to irritable bowel syndrome, but they can also occur without any underlying reason. They can cause temporary pain or discomfort, but are rarely a cause for concern.
Working with your doctor can help you identify any health problems that may be causing your spasms. You can also find a treatment that can help prevent spasms or reduce complications caused by some symptoms.

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Reference
Intestinal pseudo-obstruction. (2014). niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/intestinal-pseudo-obstruction Irritable bowel syndrome. (2017). niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome: What helps — and what doesn’t. (2016). ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0072599/ Picco MF. (2017). Spastic colon: What does it mean? mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/expert-answers/spastic-colon/faq-20058473 Spastic colon. (n.d.). cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/spastic-colon