What are the symptoms of sigmoid colon pain?
Jul 31, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
In general, sigmoid colon pain may present as colicky pain, dull pain, or distension discomfort. If inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease are present, inflammation can irritate the mucosa of the sigmoid colon, causing spasms of the smooth muscle and resulting in colicky pain in the sigmoid colon area. If a protruding lesion develops in the sigmoid colon, it may pull on or compress surrounding tissues and nerves.
In general, sigmoid colon pain may present with symptoms such as colicky pain, dull pain, distension pain, diarrhea, and muscle aches. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Colicky Pain
If a patient has inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, inflammation can irritate the mucosa of the sigmoid colon, causing spasms of the smooth muscle and resulting in colicky pain localized to the sigmoid colon area.
2. Dull Pain
If there is a protruding growth (lesion) in the sigmoid colon, it may stretch or compress surrounding tissues and nerves, stimulating nerve endings and leading to a sensation of dull or persistent pain.
3. Distension Pain
Excessive accumulation of gas in the sigmoid colon may impair normal peristalsis, obstruct intestinal movement, and cause food and gas to stagnate within the colon, thereby producing a feeling of bloating and distension pain.
4. Diarrhea
Patients with sigmoid colitis may experience increased frequency of bowel movements and poorly formed stools. In severe cases, mucus-containing bloody stools, watery diarrhea, or even dehydration may occur.
5. Muscle Aches
Prolonged diarrhea in patients with sigmoid colitis may lead to muscle soreness and weakness, and in some cases result in complications such as anemia, weight loss, and neurasthenia. Patients may take medications such as Gu Chang Zhi Xie Wan (Guchang Zhixie Pill) or Fu Zi Li Zhong Wan (Fuzi Lizhong Pill) under medical guidance.
If sigmoid colon pain occurs, it is recommended to promptly identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment to avoid delaying diagnosis and management.
