Spastic colon causes the stool to pass through the colon too quickly.  As a result, the stool can exit on its own. Diet, stress, hormones, family history, and the presence of other illnesses can put people at risk for spastic colon. Prepare for a visit with a healthcare provider by writing down important information if you feel you have spastic colon symptoms. A healthcare provider can recommend ways to help combat spastic colon, or at least reduce its discomfort.

Understanding Spastic Colon
Spastic colon can occur alone or as part of othe bowel related problems. Spastic colon is associated with abdominal pain, mucus in the stool, cramping, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Although it can be uncomfortable, spastic colon does not cause permanent damage. Spastic colon tends to be a chronic condition in people who have it.

People with spastic colon can frequently manage it through diet, lifestyle, and stress reduction. Spastic colon can be a sign of a more serious problem. It is important to see a doctor if there are persistent changes in bowel habits or if there are other problems along with the spastic colon.

In a normal individual, the muscles of the large intestine push its contents along with a wave of muscles contractions called peristalsis. In a person with spastic colon, the muscles contractions are stronger and last longer. This quickens the movements of stool through the large intestine, leading to the symptoms of spastic colon.

The triggers for spastic colon differ from person to person. Some people suffer from spastic colon when they eat certain foods. Chocolate, alcohol, milk, carbonated drinks, fruits, and vegetables can all be triggers for spastic colon. Stress can bring on spastic colon. Hormones make women more likely than men to experience spastic colon, especially during or close to menstruation. Sometimes, spastic colon is the result of another illness. Spastic colon can run in a family.

Seeking Help for Spastic Colon

It helps to prepare before seeing a doctor for spastic colon or other bowel problems. Keep a journal of the symptoms you experience, how long you experience them, and what factors might trigger them. Record any new changes or stressors in your life. List major medical information such as the medications, vitamins, and supplements that you take. Include any family history of notable bowel problems. Note any other disease you are under treatment for. Write down questions to ask the doctor on your visit.

Treatments for spastic colon frequently focus on minimizing its symptoms. They can include fiber supplements, anti-diarrheal medications, antidepressant medications, anti-cholinergic medications, antibiotics, counseling, and removing gas causing foods from the diet. Eating at regular meal times, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly can also help. Some people with spastic colon choose to tackle it with acupuncture, herbs, hypnosis, yoga, meditation, massage, or probiotics.

Key Concepts about Spastic Colon

  • Spastic colon involves quicker than normal stool movement.
  • Family history, diet, stress levels, and hormones affect the likelihood of developing spastic colon.
  • A medical expert can recommend steps for relieving the discomfort of spastic colon.

Spastic colon occurs when the muscles of the large intestine contract too forcefully or for too long. Spastic colon can make a person feel very uncomfortable. A medical professional can recommend ways to alleviate the symptoms and address the causes of spastic colon.

References:

  1. Mayo Clinic
    http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/spastic-colon/AN00498