Colon pain can be caused by irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, diverticulitis, constipation, heartburn, indigestion, or colon cancer. Persistent discomfort in the colon or severe pain requires medical evaluation. Treatment of colon pain depends on correct diagnosis of the cause.

Causes

Colon pain can be triggered by any one of a number of gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, indigestion, diverticulitis, colitis, abnormalities of the colon, or colon cancer. Colon pain can also be caused by problems with other organs in the abdominal area.

Significance

Occasional colon pain with no other symptoms is often the result of constipation, indigestion, or a gastrointestinal virus. The most common cause of chronic colon pain is irritable bowel syndrome, a painful condition which is not dangerous. Colon pain with bleeding, fever, or other symptoms requires prompt medical evaluation.

Warning

Some conditions which cause colon pain, such as diverticulitis, colitis, and colon cancer, require immediate medical intervention. Chronic or severe colon pain should always be evaluated by a licensed physician to rule out life-threatening illnesses such as cancer or infection.

Prevention/Solution

Constipation and indigestion are common causes of colon pain. Drinking lots of fluids, eating adequate fiber, and getting daily exercise can help prevent both.

Expert Insight

Irritable bowel syndrome is a frequent cause of chronic colon pain. Treatment for IBS includes lifestyle changes, dietary changes, stress reduction and medication.

Source:

ColonPain.org: Colon Pain

Mayoclinic.org: Diverticulitis

Nih.gov: Irritable Bowel Syndrome

More Information:

Mayoclinic.com: Abdominal Pain Causes