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Megacolon
Medical Questions » Megacolon
| Name: Megacolon |
| Also known as: |
| Massive distension of the descending and sigmoid colon, the last parts of the large intestine. |
Causes of Megacolon
Long term constipation and retention of faeces stretches the large bowel. May be a complication of ulcerative colitis, associated with some psychiatric and low intellect disorders, a symptom of an under active thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), due to excessive use of narcotics, or a birth defect (Hirsch sprung disease). |
Symptoms of Megacolon
Severe constipation, sometimes associated with lower abdominal pain and a watery diarrhea as liquid faeces flows around the blockage. |
Tests for Megacolon
Diagnosed by colonoscopy (passing a flexible tube up the bowel through the anus) or X-rays. |
Treatment for Megacolon
Treat any underlying disease, remove faeces build up, a special high fiber diet, and use laxatives carefully. Surgery in the form of a colostomy (opening bowel onto skin) is a last resort.
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Complications of Megacolon of its treatment
Bowel may rupture causing life threatening peritonitis. |
Likely Outcome of Megacolon
Often a persistent condition that requires constant and repeated treatment. |
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