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NIH ... Turning Discovery Into Health ®TOP Human Anatomy ©
2014 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved. The colon is also called the large intestine. The ileum (last part of the small intestine) connects to the cecum (first part of the colon) in the lower right abdomen. The rest of the colon is divided into four parts: • The ascending colon travels up the right side of the abdomen. The colon removes water, salt, and some nutrients forming stool. Muscles line the colon's walls, squeezing its contents along. Billions of bacteria coat the colon and its contents, living in a healthy balance with the body. Colon Conditions
Colon Tests
Colon Treatments
What is the main function of the sigmoid colon?The sigmoid colon is the last section of the bowel — the part that attaches to the rectum. It's about a foot and a half long (around 40 centimeters) and is shaped like the letter “s.” Its job is to hold feces until you're ready to go to the bathroom. The sigmoid contains a lot of muscle tissue.
Where is the sigmoid colon located in the large intestine?The sigmoid colon (or pelvic colon) is the part of the large intestine that is closest to the rectum and anus. It forms a loop that averages about 35–40 centimetres (14–16 in) in length. The loop is typically shaped like a Greek letter sigma (ς) or Latin letter S (thus sigma + -oid).
What disease affects the sigmoid colon?Proctosigmoiditis. Inflammation involves the rectum and sigmoid colon — the lower end of the colon. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps and pain, and an inability to move the bowels despite the urge to do so. This is called tenesmus.
Where do you feel sigmoid colon pain?Abdominal pain (most commonly in the left lower quadrant) Nausea. Vomiting. Constipation (may be severe)
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