Full Answer
What exactly is a redundant colon and is it dangerous?
Tortuous or redundant colon is a rare disorder in which your extra-long intestines have loops or bends. Most likely, you don’t even know you have it, but in some cases, you may have digestive problems such as cramps or constipation. In very rare instances, tortuous colon may cause serious medical problems.
What are the causes of a long redundant colon?
What Are the Causes of a Long Redundant Colon?
- Constipation and Dietary Issues. The most probable cause of redundant colon is constipation. ...
- Stress. Because stress can lead to infrequent bowel movements, this can be another contributing factor in the development of constipation and, possibly, redundant colon.
- Toxins and Pathogenic Organisms. ...
- Warning. ...
What are the symptoms of a redundant colon?
- Severe lower abdominal pain
- Distended abdomen
- Excessive abdominal swelling
- Nausea
- No bowel movement for longer than three days
- Passing stool that contains mucus or blood
- Vomiting 4
What is the treatment for redundancy of the sigmoid colon?
What Are the Causes of Sigmoid Colon Pain?
- Ulcerative Colitis. This is a disease that leads to inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon. ...
- Diverticular Disease. There are two types of diverticular disease: diverticulosis, which is when pockets develop in the intestinal walls; and diverticulitis, when the pockets become inflamed.
- Sigmoid Volvulus. ...
- Redundant Colon. ...
- Sigmoid Colon Cancer. ...
What can be done for a redundant colon?
When constipation is an issue in someone who has a redundant colon, various other options for treating constipation are available. These options include medications that draw more water to the colon or stimulate contractions in bowels to move things along. For some, a low-fiber diet may be what's best.
What does it mean to have a long redundant colon?
Summary. If your colon measures longer than five feet, it will contort itself so that it can fit into your abdomen. The extra loops and bends that form result in a condition known as tortuous or redundant colon. You may have some digestive discomfort such as constipation and cramping, but often there are no issues.
What problems does a tortuous colon cause?
Constipation can result in rectal prolapse, hemorrhoids, or even anal fissures. In addition to health risks arising from symptoms of a tortuous colon, individuals with this condition are at an increased risk of developing colonic volvulus, which is when the large intestine becomes twisted around itself.
Is a redundant colon congenital?
A Redundant Colon or a 'Tortuous colon' is a congenital abnormality of the intestines such that the colon is longer than what is considered normal. Though not necessarily dangerous, it is usually diagnosed as a result of a colonoscopy and may make it a more difficult procedure.
How long can you live with a twisted colon?
Without any fluids (either as sips, ice chips or intravenously) people with a complete bowel obstruction most often survive a week or two. Sometimes it's only a few days, sometimes as long as three weeks. With fluids, survival time may be extended by a few weeks or even a month or two.
How do they fix a twisted colon?
If the obstruction is caused by a twisting of the sigmoid area of the large intestine, a doctor may try to straighten out the twisting segment with lighted instruments (such as a proctoscope or sigmoidoscope) or a barium enema. But surgery is sometimes needed to fix twisting of the intestine.
What Is a Redundant Colon?
Now that we understand how the colon works, what does redundant colon mean? When the colon is referred to as redundant, it simply means that the colon is usually long. The extra length is usually seen in the descending colon, or the third and penultimate portion of the colon. It may have loops and twists along the pathway, giving it the additional names tortuous colon or elongated colon.
What is the last part of the digestive system?
The colon is also referred to as the large intestine, and it is known as the last part of the digestive tract. Running from the small intestine to the rectum, the colon is responsible for absorbing water and transporting waste products as the muscle walls contract. Within the colon, there are healthy bacteria along these walls ...
Why is my colon redundant?
First, the symptoms mimic those of other disorders and diseases and may be mistaken for mild digestive issues. Second, a redundant colon often does not present any symptoms. If symptoms are present, they can range from mild to severe and may require treatment. The most common symptoms of a redundant colon are:
How to reduce bloating and pain in colon?
1. Diet. For a redundant colon diet, it is important to include high-fiber foods to prevent constipation and its symptoms of bloating, discomfort, and pain. Foods enriched with fiber will help soften stools for less strain on the colon. The recommended daily amount for fiber is 20 to 25 grams on a daily 2,500-calorie diet.
What is the colon?
Our colon is a vital part of our digestive system, and without it, we would not be able to naturally process food and waste products and toxins from our system. For some people, the colon is extended in length, which may present difficulties with the elimination process. We will look at the symptoms of the so-called redundant colon and learn some at-home care techniques to ensure a healthy lifestyle.
What is the condition called when the colon twists?
This is known as colonic volvulus, and requires immediate medical attention in the form of a surgical procedure. If the portion of the sigmoid colon twists, it creates the condition called sigmoid volvulus.
How to diagnose redundant colon?
As most cases of redundant colon do not present any notable symptoms, it may only be diagnosed through testing for gastrointestinal complaints. These tests include X-rays and possibly a colonoscopy.
When to see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if you are having extreme stomach or lower abdominal pain, haven’t had a bowel movement for more than three days, or if you are vomiting brown, stool-like contents.
What is it called when you have a redundant colon?
Here are some of the typical redundant colon symptoms: When a person with redundant colon experiences twists in the colon, it is called colonic volvulus. The problem with colonic volvulus is that it can slow or stop the flow of stool, which leads to an obstruction that can require emergency surgery.
What does it mean when your colon is long?
A person with an abnormally long colon can suffer from redundant colon. This means that the colon (large intestine) is lengthier than the average 47- to 60-inch colon. While in some cases, people have no idea they have redundant colon, others do suffer from uncomfortable symptoms. If left untreated, it can lead to complications.
What is redundant colon surgery?
This includes redundant colon surgery, which can be necessary if a person is unable to pass stool. In less severe situations, medical treatment can include prescribing fiber-containing supplements along with changes to diet.
What are the symptoms of a long colon?
If a case of redundant colon occurs and the symptoms are severe, it needs to be treated. Here are some of the typical redundant colon symptoms: Increased bloating.
How to diagnose a redundant colon?
In most cases, a redundant colon is diagnosed through an X-ray or colonoscopy that is conducted for another reason. Once a redundant colon is discovered, the patient will be directed to follow certain dietary routines. Most diets for redundant colon include foods that contain fiber.
How much fiber should I consume a day?
Nutritionists say men need at least 30 grams and women need about 20 grams of fiber each day. There are a lot of fruits and vegetables that contain fiber, including apples, pears, raspberries, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, and spinach.
What to eat with cellulosis?
An other docter told me to use Chlorophyll , cellulosis, to eat. 1) lemon+1 spoon of honey+2 tbs of olive oil+ 1 onion morning , 4 days a week all the month long. 2) pumpkin+ green tomatoes+ vegies of beenplant+igname. 3) 4 aples+passion fruits+ pinapple+maize+papay all the day long at 8:00am and at 4:00pm.
Is Miralax a GI med?
Miralax is made from propolene glycol. So is antifreeze. Magnesium in all forms is an essential nutrient and critical for efficient bowel function. Gastroenterology is useless for your problem stop expecting them to cure you. You can help yourself and need to do so- you will get no relief in a GI office.
Is bloating a big deal?
With all due respect, it is a big deal when every day your life revolves around your GI status. The bloating and embarrassing gas is more than just a mere nuisance. It definitely interferes with the individual's daily life. I have had IBS with constipation and a redundant colon for 24 years. I treat the symptoms DAILY but it doesn't always work. I wish there was a better answer.
Is redundant colon problematic?
CalGal. Respectfully, redundant colon can be problematic depending on the length and configuration of the redundancy. If of excessive length and if that redundant section is 'twistable' on it's mesocolon, the redundancy can 'twist or torque' presenting significant problems.
Can you get surgery for a redundant colon?
Welcome to the gastroenterology community! If your only physical abnormality is a redundant colon then you should not get surgery. This a very common thing that a lot of people have. It can add to your constipation problems, so it is best to deal with the constipation problem (which is probably IBS) with a gastroenterologist and don't worry about the diagnosis of a redundant colon as it is not a big deal.
Can you have surgery on the large intestine?
Some people do have surgery on the large intestine if there's a serious problem, but it would have to be documented. And the problem with the surgery is the large intestine has a variable blood supply so more than just the portion that's redundant might have to be removed.
What is redundant colon?
A Redundant Colon or a 'Tortuous colon' is a congenital abnormality of the intestines such that the colon is longer than what is considered normal. Though not necessarily dangerous, it is usually diagnosed as a result of a colonoscopy and may make it a more difficult procedure.
Common symptoms reported by people with redundant colon
Reports may be affected by other conditions and/or medication side effects. We ask about general symptoms (anxious mood, depressed mood, fatigue, pain, and stress) regardless of condition.
Treatments taken by people for redundant colon
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Compare treatments taken by people with redundant colon
Let’s build this page together! When you share what it’s like to have redundant colon through your profile, those stories and data appear here too.
Why are prunes good for you?
Prunes are also a good source of fiber, and they are especially helpful in relieving constipation due to the fact that they contain sorbitol and phenolic acids, which can improve bowel function . Fiber is so important in the diet of someone who has a tortuous colon for a couple of reasons.
How many people have a tortuous colon?
( 1) However, it is estimated that about 5% of people have this condition. Healthline reports that the average colon is about 47 to 60 inches in length. ( 2)
What happens if you have a tortuous colon?
People who have a tortuous colon have an increased risk of colonic volvulus as well, which results in colonic obstruction. If the flow of stool is slowed or completely stopped, it may lead to an emergency requiring surgery.
Why is my stool hard?
One cause of the development of this health issue is an improper diet. A diet that is lacking in fiber and hydration may result in chronic constipation and hard stool. Eating too many processed foods on a regular basis can also lead to chronic constipation. Chronic constipation causes the person to strain excessively during bowel movements, ...
Why does constipation cause a long colon?
Chronic constipation causes the person to strain excessively during bowel movements, which results in the straining of the intestine as well. Slow movement of bowels with straining during a bowel movement may ultimately result in the lengthening of the colon.
How long is the average colon?
Healthline reports that the average colon is about 47 to 60 inches in length. ( 2) A person with a tortuous colon, however, has a longer intestine that is typically located in the descending colon, which is the portion of the large intestine beginning at the splenic flexure and ending at the sigmoid colon. The descending colon’s function within the ...
Why does my colon twist and bend?
This issue results from the large intestine becoming longer than normal, causing the colon to twist and bend in order to adjust to its allocated space in the body. The tortuous colon’s loops and bends may result in the obstruction of the intestinal tract, and difficulty passing fecal material. This may lead to constipation, which requires lifestyle ...
What is a Redundant Colon?
The sigmoid colon is the part which connects to the rectum. On average, the colon is anywhere from 120 to 150 centimeters long (approximately 50 to 60 inches). However, in people with a redundant colon, the large intestine is abnormally long, particularly towards the descending colon area . Many times, this also results in additional looping or twisting of the colon and can give rise to further health problems. A tortuous colon and looping can also give rise to a difficult colonoscopy.
Why is colonoscopy so difficult?
A difficult colonoscopy is one in which the endoscopist has a hard time passing the colonoscope through the entire colon or is unable to do so for a number of reasons. Redundant colons and a narrow or angulated sigmoid colon are two of the biggest causes of a difficult colonoscopy.
Why is it so hard to do a colonoscopy?
When a person has a tortuous colon, the additional length and looping can result in specific colonoscopy-related injuries or consequences. There are other factors that can contribute to a difficult colonoscopy. Women in general have longer colons than men, which is tightly packed into the abdominal cavity, and can result in several twists which can make maneuvering the endoscope difficult during the procedure. People with diverticular disease, a history of constipation, and those who reported using a laxative are also noted to have had a higher chance of having a difficult colonoscopy.
