Ascending Colon
Providing a first line of passage for digested food materials making their exit through the body, the ascending colon is a vital section of the colon as a whole as well as the overall digestive system.
On average, the ascending colon measures approximately 25 cm, though this can depend on the individual’s overall colon size. When taken care of, this part of the body provides an extremely important function in a person’s overall health.
Ascending Colon Placement
Traveling in an upwards direction, the ascending colon finds itself placed behind and just beneath the right-hand section of the liver. It is also in contact with the back wall of the abdominal cavity, and passes directly in front of the right kidney.
Organs Bordering the Ascending Colon
- Liver
- Right Kidney
- Small Intestine
- Gall Bladder
Tube-like in shape, the ascending colon is covered with the peritoneum and is connected to other organs by loose areolar tissue. The anatomical placement helps the ascending colon to perform its functions within the body.
Ascending Colon Function
The ascending colon is comprised of strong muscles that motor waste products upward and onward out of the body. As part of the larger gastrointestinal tract, the ascending colon connects and continues the work of the small intestine in moving food along on its journey through the body. This digested food matter is known as “chyme.” Water and nutrients are extracted during this whole process, making overall colon function extremely important to a healthy lifestyle.
Containing over 60 types of bacteria to assist with the digestion process, the ascending colon can be affected by a series of disorders of these bacteria levels are thrown out of balance for whatever reason.
Ascending Colon Disorders
There are a number of disorders that can affect the ascending colon. Because it is the frontline for waste products beginning their journey through the colon, it provides the first level of filtration and therefore is prone to becoming infected by toxic materials. Waste material may become backed up, leading to constipation, or bacterial infection could cause the opposite reaction, diarrhea.
Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Ascending Colon
- Rectal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Cramping
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
If experiencing any of these symptoms to a severe degree, it is recommended to pay a visit to a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Fortunately, taking preventative measures can help keep bowel movement smooth and regular.
If treatment is determined to be necessary, cleansing methods may help to alleviate these ascending colon disorders.
Cleansing Options for the Ascending Colon
- Laxatives
- Colon irrigation
- Herbs
- High fiber foods
- Oxygen based cleansers
A balanced diet and healthy lifestyle go a long way in helping to keep the ascending colon in prime working order. Eating foods that are low in fat and high in fiber seem to be a great way to keep bowel movements regular, assisting the ascending colon in its tireless work in moving digested food matter ever onwards and upwards.
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