Perforated Colon
Information On a Perforated Colon
Another name for perforated colon is diverticulitis. This is a disorder that occurs in the gastrointestinal tract and it is usually in the descending colon or the sigmoid. It is usually the result of a hernia in the colon muscles and it ranges in size from five to ten milliliters and can get as large as two centimeters large. It is also important to know that the older you get the changes of developing a perforated colon increases.
This can be deadly at times if an infection from the perforated colon spreads to the cavity of your abdomen. It can also cause the bowel to narrow and this may result in an obstruction. Some people never have any symptoms related to the perforated colon but some people actually do have symptoms. He or she may feel pain, fevered or chilled. This person may also have an increase in their white blood cells. Other symptoms may include nausea, diarrhea, or constipation.
So what are some of the common causes of a perforated colon? Well, first of all, it could be a result of a medical procedure by your doctor. If you believe this is the cause of your problems you may want to consider malpractice. It could also be a result of appendicitis or chron’s disease. Gallstones or gall bladder problems can also result in this complication. By understanding some of the common causes you may be able to better understand the root of your particular problem. If you know that you have had gallstones or appendicitis in the past, you are going to want to let your doctor know this. He or she may be able to diagnosis a perforated colon without numerous testing if he or she has a better understanding of your medical history.
If you are suffering from symptoms your doctor may order that you have a CT scan completed. The CT scan may help rid the body of any drainage that may need to be done so that you will not need surgery. Your doctor may also ask that you have a colonoscopy done. Other things that could be ordered include sigmoidoscopy or a barium enema. By having these tests done your doctor may also be able to verify that you actually do have a perforated colon.
When you have an attack from the perforated colon your doctor may order rest, IV fluids and/or antibiotics. If you are continually suffering from symptoms you may need to have surgery. You may then be placed on a diet that is very low in fiber. This is done in order to give your colon time to heal after the surgery. There are risks involved with the surgery and these included some bowel obstruction, peritonitis, bleeding, or even strictures. Even though these things may result from the surgery, it is important to remember that if you are suffering from symptoms on a regular basis, it may be worth it. You can also talk to you doctor about your concerns and any risks that may be involved with a surgical procedure.
A perforated colon can be very uncomfortable for someone that is experiencing the symptoms that are associated with it. Talk to your family physician if you are continuing to suffer from constipation or diarrhea. Make sure that you write down important medical information that you can give to him or her so that they have a better understanding of what you may be experiencing. Also be aware of any family medical history that may impact you such as chron’s disease. Talk to your doctor about what you can do to be more comfortable when you do have an attack. This is very important if you have frequent attacks and you are not going to have a surgical procedure done on you. You do not want to be miserable each time you have symptoms. You also want to know what foods your diet should consist of so that you are not causing these complications over and over again. Learn to avoid the foods that can trigger it.