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Descending Colon
Smaller than the ascending or transverse colon, the descending colon is no less important for its size. It continues the work of the previous sections of the colon (or large intestine), purifying and preparing digested materials and moving waste products ever closer to the outside world.
Placement of the Descending Colon
The third section of the colon connects the horizontal transverse colon with the part closest to the rectum, the sigmoid colon. The descending colon slopes downward as its name suggests, continuing the journey of waste closer than ever to the end goal of expulsion from the body.
The descending colon passes straight down to the side of the left kidney and the left portion of the abdominal wall. At the end it connects to the next portion of colon anatomy, the sigmoid colon.
Organs Surrounding Descending Colon
- Left kidney
- Small intestine
Tubular in shape, the descending colon is comprised of strong muscles surrounded by the peritoneum which help it perform its main functions in the overall work of the colon.
Descending Colon Form and Function
Performing its work in a downward motion, the descending colon continues the movement of digested waste materials from the transverse colon down to the sigmoid colon and finally the rectum in order to achieve ultimate expulsion. In the meantime, it continues the process of removing any remaining water and nutrients from the waste material.
Aided with the help of bacteria and the nervous system, if this behavior is thrown into any sort of an imbalance, there may be problems in the descending colon’s ability to perform these important functions properly.
Descending Colon Disorders
Just as with the other parts of the colon, the descending colon is unfortunately prone to disorders or diseases. Colitis, colon cancer, or irritable bowel syndrome are just a few of the diseases that can affect this vulnerable part of the colon.
A simple bacterial infection is often the cause of problems, and can be cleared up with antibiotics. If exhibiting any of the following symptoms over a prolonged period of time, visiting a health care professional is recommended.
Signs and Symptoms of Descending Colon Disorders
- Excessive mucus in waste
- Bloody stools
- Fever
- Abdominal cramping
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
These symptoms, among others, can indicate that something is not functioning properly with the descending colon or other parts of the colon. There are treatment options available if this is the case.
Keeping the descending colon free from blockage may help, with colon cleansing a viable option in this circumstance. This can be performed by a professional with colon irrigation, or through self cleansing products.
Because the colon is part of a delicate balanced system, proper nutrition and self-care can go a long way in its maintenance.
- Protect the descending colon with a high-fiber, low-fat diet.
- Stay hydrated by drinking the recommended six to eight glasses of water per day, which help keep the colon lubricated for easy removal of waste products.
Digestive health is an extremely important component of the overall health of the body. Taking a few precautionary measures to keep the descending colon in prime working order is definitely worth the time and effort.
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