what we know and what we still need to know
by @drMishi DHMS (RHMS)
In the digestive system, the large intestine, or colon, plays a crucial role in absorbing water and electrolytes as well as eliminating waste products. There are, however, some disorders that can affect the large intestine that can cause significant discomfort and even serious health problems.
There has been a lot of research on disorders of the large intestine, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, and colorectal cancer, among others. A closer look at some of this field's latest findings follows:
An inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is a chronic illness that affects the digestive tract. Inflammation and other symptoms of IBD may be triggered by dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut microbiome. Researchers have also identified several genetic risk factors for IBD, which could make developing more targeted therapies easier.
The symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation, all of which are related to the large intestine. Research shows that IBS alters the gut-brain axis, affecting gut motility, visceral sensitivity, and immune function. IBS has also been linked to psychological factors like stress and anxiety, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach.
Symptoms of diverticulitis include inflamed or infected pouches called diverticula developing in the colon wall. Researchers have found that a high-fiber diet can reduce the risk of diverticulitis, while antibiotics may not always be necessary. In severe or recurrent cases of diverticulitis, surgery may be required, but the optimal timing and approach to surgery are still being explored.
The colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum and can spread to other parts of the body. The detection of colorectal cancer at an early stage has been shown to be easier with colonoscopy, stool DNA testing, and fecal immunochemical testing. Colorectal cancer screening and prevention strategies can also be influenced by genetic testing.
We still know very little about large intestine disorders despite significant advances in our understanding and management. It is still unclear what causes many of these disorders, and more targeted and personalized treatments are needed that take genetics, microbiome, and lifestyle factors into account. It is also important to conduct more research in order to develop better screening tools and diagnostic tools to detect these disorders early, when they are most treatable.
The quality of life and overall health of a person can be significantly affected by large intestine disorders. Our understanding and management of these conditions can be improved through ongoing research and collaboration between healthcare providers, researchers, and patients.
A proactive approach to digestive health can reduce the burden of large intestine disorders and improve outcomes for everyone.