The colon is the part of the intestinal tract that connects the lower stomach to the rectum. This tract is responsible for removing moisture from solid waste before is is excreted from the body. It also absorbs minerals from foods as they are digested and converted into waste. Several common health problems may produce pain in the colon.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the colon lining, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. About 500,000 people in the United States have ulcerative colitis. The exact cause of the condition is unknown, although poor immune system function, genetics and environmental toxins may contribute. Ulcerative colitis produces symptoms such as diarrhea, bloody stool and colon pain.
Excess Toxins
Excess toxins in the intestinal tract may produce colon pain, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." These toxins are collected in the body from environmental pollutants, agricultural chemicals in foods and drugs such as tobacco, alcohol and prescription medication. Excess toxins can irritate the lining of the colon.
Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is the growth of polyps in the intestine. These polyps usually begin as benign growths, but may develop into cancerous polyps over time. According to MayoClinic.com, colon cancer causes a variety of symptoms, including rectal bleeding, weight loss, fatigue and pain in the colon.
Crohn's Disease
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel condition similar to ulcerative colitis, except that it the inflammation is not confined to the inner lining of the colon. Crohn's disease can produce chronic pain in the colon and rectum. It can also prevent the absorption of nutrients in the intestine, which may lead to malnutrition.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ulcerative Colitis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- MayoClinic.com: Colon Cancer
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Crohn's Disease
