Thickened sigmoid colon treatment can range from stool softeners or over-the-counter medication to surgery. There may be ways to prevent the condition before it becomes a serious problem. Thickened sigmoid colon can be caused by diverticulosis and may be hard to detect.

1

Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is when there are pockets or bumps that can form or have formed on the colon. These balloon-like shaped bumps occur because of the extreme amount of pressure that is being put on the colon during contractions. The sigmoid colon is the area of the colon that is put under the most pressure. These bumps can cause the sigmoid to become thick and cause the colon to become narrow. This causes a high level of discomfort during bowel movements.

  • Diverticulosis is when there are pockets or bumps that can form or have formed on the colon.
  • These balloon-like shaped bumps occur because of the extreme amount of pressure that is being put on the colon during contractions.
2

Symptoms

As a result of the pressure being put on the sigmoid colon, the colon becomes thickened and narrowed. This can cause difficultly during bowel movements and can significantly affect bowel function. This can cause pain, discomfort, constipation and diarrhoea to the affected person. This pain may be manageable, but may be troublesome to the person.

  • As a result of the pressure being put on the sigmoid colon, the colon becomes thickened and narrowed.
  • This pain may be manageable, but may be troublesome to the person.
3

Prevention/Solution

A thickened sigmoid colon can be prevented before treatment is needed. Including fibre, bran and roughage in your diet can help the overall function of your colon. Water can be used to cleanse the colon and help regulate its function. A daily intake of 20 to 30 grams of fibre is recommended for everyone.

  • A thickened sigmoid colon can be prevented before treatment is needed.
  • Including fibre, bran and roughage in your diet can help the overall function of your colon.
4

Surgery

Another treatment option for those with thickened sigmoid colon is surgery. The surgery consists of removing the diseased or weakened part of the colon where the diverticulitis has formed. A colostomy is usually not used with this type of procedure, if the diverticulitis has been found early on. If surgery is done in a non-emergency situation, a colostomy is usually not needed.

  • Another treatment option for those with thickened sigmoid colon is surgery.
  • A colostomy is usually not used with this type of procedure, if the diverticulitis has been found early on.
5

Stool Softener

One form of treatment that only helps temporarily is stool softener. Stool softener will make it easier for you to pass stool through your colon. It may also decrease the pressure in the bowel over a period of time. You may find these products in your local chemist. Examples of these agents include psyllium and methylcellulose.

  • One form of treatment that only helps temporarily is stool softener.
  • Stool softener will make it easier for you to pass stool through your colon.