We recognize that eliminating toxic substances from our body through feces is necessary to maintain health and reduce the risk of self-poisoning. However, bad eating habits, poorly managed stress and sedentary lifestyle influence the process of discharging waste properly. Hence, the toxic megacolon, becomes a high risk disease, which can slowly compromise the life of the individual.
Especially because this is a condition that can be present from birth as a direct effect of genetics. Where the massive dilation of the large intestine leads to notoriously hindering the proper handling of feces and gases. But, it can also be acquired over time, as a result of other infectious diseases or as a result of untreated chronic intestinal constipation. 1
Toxic megacolon is a complication
In fact, the inflammations related to the different types of colitis, if not properly treated, can lead to extreme dilation of the colon. Where, in severe cases, the symptoms that it triggers include body temperature greater than 38.5ºC and heart rate above 120 beats per minute. In addition, to show a profuse decrease in blood pressure; accompanied by mental confusion and dehydration; threatening the existence of the patient.1
Thus, as the toxic megacolon, generates lesions in the nerve endings of the intestine, causing loss of movement ability to expel stool properly. What it does, that gradually the intestinal walls are impregnated with waste material that is fermented and when it is again absorbed by the body, it gets intoxicated in a massive way, causing serious health complications.2
Is there any type of treatment?
When talking about the acquired toxic megacolon; in response to a disease such as rectal ulcerative colitis or intestinal torsion, diverticulitis, intestinal ischemia, or cancer obstruction; First of all, one must seek to alleviate the symptoms. Hence, medical evaluation and diagnostic tests are important to establish the severity of the clinical picture and to suggest the most appropriate treatment.2
Above all, because it is necessary to immediately replace blood electrolytes and reduce intestinal inflammation. For which, the use of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and corticosteroids will surely be formulated. But, when symptoms are severe and radiological tests show a delay greater than 6 cm in diameter, the option of surgically removing the affected area may be the most successful.3
In summary
Toxic megacolon is a serious clinical condition that puts the patient’s life at risk. Above all, when it generates complications that lead to vomiting, bloating and acute abdominal pain. Therefore, before any symptoms, it is important to have professional guidance. In addition, it is also necessary to address the risk factors.
Hence, including foods rich in fiber in the daily diet, frequent physical activity, adequate rest and keeping unhealthy levels of stress at bay, can become health strategies that can help. Thus, it is not only possible to keep the colon healthy, but also the entire organism, in order to maintain good living conditions.
References:
1.Siado Guerrero SA, Jiménez Sánchez HC, Martínez Montalvo CM. Toxic Megacolon of Idiopathic Origin: Case Report. Rev. colomb. Gastroenterol. [Internet]. July 5, 2018 [citado 10 de septiembre de 2021]; 33 (2): 166-71. Available in: https://revistagastrocol.com/index.php/rcg/article/view/256.
- 2. Carrillo-Esper R, Calderón-Álvarez TJL, Muciño-Bermejo J, et al. Toxic megacolon. Med Int Mex. [internet] 2012 [consultado 10 sep. 2021]; 28 (3): 282-287. Available in:
https://www.medigraphic.com/cgi-bin/new/resumen.cgi?IDARTICULO=34935.
3.Castro Fernández M., García Romero D., Sánchez Muñoz D., Grande L, Larraona JL Severe ulcerative colitis, with toxic megacolon, resolved with infliximab. Rev. esp. sick dig. [Internet]. Jul 2007 [citado 2021 sep.10]; 99 (7): 426-427. Available in:
http://scielo.isciii.es/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1130-01082007000700017&lng=es.