Spastic Colon – Causes, Symptoms and Solutions

Q: What are the possible causes for spastic colon and what are its symptoms? What are the solutions?

A: Spastic colon is one of the many names for a condition known as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It?s a problem with motility, (movement of food through the digestive tract), in the intestines. Spasms in the large intestine (or colon, hence the term, spastic colon) bring on the symptoms. These may include various combinations of: cramps, gas, bloating, diarrhea and constipation.

While the spasms cause the symptoms, the cause is not known. There is a link between IBS and stress, although stress probably acts as a trigger, but is not the underlying cause.

It?s not generally a serious condition, but IBS can range from a simple nuisance to a disabling condition. If your symptoms are severe, it?s important that you see a doctor to make sure that what you have is indeed IBS and not ulcerative colitis, an inflammation of the colon. With IBS, there is not inflammation.

There?s no cure, but treatment ? if you follow through ? can be very helpful in relieving symptoms. Treatment typically consists of dietary and lifestyle changes. Talk with your doctor, and it may help to consult a nutritionist. Exercise and stress reduction can be very useful in reducing the symptoms. Sometimes doctors prescribe medications.