Colorectal diseases encompass a wide variety of conditions affecting the colon and rectum. The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons stresses the importance of early screening and treatment of colorectal diseases for the best outcomes. Therefore, it is important to be able to identify the signs and symptoms of the various diseases of the colon and rectum.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is defined as any cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 140,000 individuals are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year, and it is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Colorectal cancer is curable if detected early, so it is important to seek medical attention if bowel habits change or rectal bleeding occurs. Inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease all increase the risk of colorectal cancer, according to the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the rectum and colon. It can occur at any age, but typically is seen in individuals ages 15 to 30. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include bloody stools, constipation and diarrhea, and abdominal pain. There is no cure for ulcerative colitis, but medications and sometimes surgical procedures can help alleviate the symptoms.
Crohn's Disease
Another type of inflammatory bowel disease is Crohn's disease, which is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation in the lining of the digestive tract, typically affecting all layers as compared to the top layer in ulcerative colitis, according to the National Institutes of Health. Symptoms include abdominal pain and diarrhea, malnutrition and weight loss, and bloody stools. There is no cure for Crohn's disease, but therapies such as anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs, antibiotics and surgery are helpful in relieving the symptoms of the disease.
Diverticular Disease
Often, as a normal part of aging, small pockets or pouches form in the wall of the colon called diverticula. If multiple diverticula are present, this is called diverticulosis, and if they become inflamed it is called diverticulitis. These two conditions are referred to as diverticular disease, which causes pain, bloating and constipation and can lead to more severe complications such as perforations or blockage in the colon, according to familydoctor.org. Symptoms are most often relieved by following a high-fiber, low-fat diet, which includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Hemorrhoids
A hemorrhoid is a very common condition, with estimates that more than 50 percent of Americans will develop hemorrhoids at some point in time, according to the ASCRS. It is identified by swollen and inflamed veins in the lower rectum or anus, which cause bleeding, itching, irritation or pain in the affected area. There are many causes of hemorrhoids, which include but are not limited to straining during bowel movements and sitting for extended periods of time on the toilet, obesity and pregnancy, according to Mayo Clinic. Lifestyle changes, medications and surgery are all ways to treat hemorrhoids.
