Anatomy of the Colorectal Region

• Colon: Also known as the large intestine, divided into:
  • Ascending colon
  • Transverse colon
  • Descending colon
  • Sigmoid colon
• Rectum: Last 6–8 inches of the colon, leads to the anus
• Anus: The opening through which stool exits the body

🔹 Common Colorectal Conditions

1. Colorectal Cancer

• One of the most common cancers worldwide
• Often begins as small, benign polyps that can become cancerous over time
• Symptoms: Blood in stool, changes in bowel habits, weight loss, fatigue

2. Colorectal Polyps

• Small growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum
• Most are harmless, but some can develop into cancer
• Detected and removed during a colonoscopy

3. Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis

• Diverticulosis: Small pouches (diverticula) form in the colon wall
• Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of diverticula
• Symptoms: Abdominal pain, fever, constipation or diarrhea

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

• Includes Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease
• Causes chronic inflammation of the colon and/or rectum
• Symptoms: Abdominal cramps, bloody stools, urgency, fatigue

5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

• Functional disorder with symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea
• No structural damage or inflammation

6. Hemorrhoids

• Swollen veins in the rectum or anus
• Can cause bleeding, itching, pain

7. Colorectal Infections

• Caused by bacteria (e.g., C. difficile), viruses, or parasites
• Often result in diarrhea and inflammation

🔹 Colorectal Cancer Screening

• Colonoscopy: Gold standard, allows removal of polyps during the exam
• Stool tests: Detect blood or DNA markers (e.g., FIT, Cologuard)
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Examines the rectum and sigmoid colon
• CT colonography: Virtual colonoscopy

👉 Recommended for adults aged 45 and older or earlier if high-risk

🔹 Symptoms to Watch For

• Rectal bleeding or blood in stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
• Change in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea)
• A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely
• Fatigue or anemia

🔹 Treatment Options

Depending on the condition:

🩺 Medical Treatment

• Anti-inflammatory medications (for IBD)
• Antibiotics (for infections or diverticulitis)
• Laxatives or antispasmodics (for IBS)

🏥 Surgical Treatment

• Removal of polyps or tumors
• Resection of diseased bowel segments (for cancer or severe IBD)
• Colostomy (rarely needed, temporary or permanent)

🍎 Diet & Lifestyle Changes

• High-fiber diet
• Adequate water intake
• Regular exercise
• Limiting red/processed meat (especially for cancer prevention)

🔹 When to See a Doctor

• Blood in your stool
• Persistent changes in bowel movements
• Abdominal pain that doesn’t go away
• Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps