Splenic flexure syndrome is a condition that may cause abdominal pain, bloating and gas. The syndrome occurs when the colon becomes twisted or kinked at the splenic flexure, which is the point where the colon bends near the spleen. The kink can cause partially obstructed bowel movements and may also trap gas and fluid in the intestine.
Splenic flexure syndrome is not a serious condition and can be treated with lifestyle changes, such as eating a high-fiber diet and avoiding foods that cause gas. In some cases, over-the-counter or prescription medications may be necessary to relieve symptoms. Surgery is rarely needed.
Causes
There are a few different theories about what causes splenic flexure syndrome, but the most likely cause is a combination of anatomic and functional factors. The splenic flexure is the point where the colon bends from running horizontally along the abdomen to running vertically down the left side. This bend can put pressure on the colon and other organs in the area, which can lead to symptoms like pain, bloating, and constipation. Other possible causes include inflammation of the colon or other nearby organs, scar tissue from previous surgery in the area, or tumors.
Symptoms
Splenic flexure syndrome is a condition that can cause abdominal pain and other problems. The main symptom of splenic flexure syndrome is abdominal pain. This pain is usually felt in the upper left abdomen, near the spleen. Other symptoms of splenic flexure syndrome include bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation.
The exact cause of splenic flexure syndrome is unknown. It is thought to be caused by an abnormal build-up of scar tissue in the area where the colon bends (the splenic flexure). This build-up of scar tissue can make it difficult for the colon to move food through it.
Splenic flexure syndrome is often diagnosed based on symptoms and a physical exam.
Diagnosis
Splenic flexure syndrome is a condition that is caused by the abnormal anatomy of the splenic flexure. The splenic flexure is the point at which the colon bends as it enters the abdomen on the left side. This bend is normally very sharp, but in people with splenic flexure syndrome, it is much more gradual. This can cause a number of problems, including pain, bloating, and constipation.
The diagnosis of splenic flexure syndrome begins with a medical history and physical examination. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and any other health conditions you may have. They will also want to know if you have any family history of gastrointestinal problems. During the physical examination, your doctor will feel for areas of tenderness in your abdomen. Imaging tests, such as an X-ray or CT scan, may also be used to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Splenic flexure syndrome is a condition that occurs when the colon becomes twisted or kinked at the splenic flexure. This can cause a blockage in the flow of stool and gas and can lead to pain, cramping, and bloating.
There are several treatment options for splenic flexure syndrome. First, your doctor may recommend changing your diet to help relieve symptoms and prevent constipation. This may include eating more fiber-rich foods, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms.
If dietary changes don’t improve symptoms, your doctor may recommend medications to help relieve pain and inflammation or to soften stool and promote regular bowel movements. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to untwist the colon or remove any blockages.
Prevention
There are a few preventions for splenic flexure syndrome. The first is to avoid any sudden or dramatic increase in physical activity. This puts strain on the abdominal muscles and can cause the flexure to become irritated. If you must increase your activity level, do so gradually to give your body time to adjust.
Another prevention is to maintain a healthy weight. This will help reduce the amount of strain on your abdominal muscles and decrease the likelihood of developing splenic flexure syndrome. Finally, be sure to eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated. This will help keep your digestive system functioning properly and reduce the risk of developing this condition.
Risk Factors
There are several risk factors for developing splenic flexure syndrome. These include:
1. Obesity: Excess weight puts extra pressure on the abdomen, which can lead to slippage of the splenic flexure.
2. Pregnancy: The added weight and pressure from a growing womb can cause the splenic flexure to slip out of place.
3. Chronic coughing: This also puts extra pressure on the abdomen and can cause the splenic flexure to become displaced.
4. Repeated heavy lifting: Lifting heavy objects puts strain on the abdominal muscles, which can lead to the displacement of the splenic flexure.
Complications
There are a few potential complications of splenic flexure syndrome, though they are relatively rare. One complication is perforation of the colon, which can lead to infection or even death. Another is intestinal obstruction, which can be very painful and debilitating. Finally, there is a small risk of developing cancer in the affected area of the colon. While these complications are serious, they are rare, and most people with splenic flexure syndrome will not experience any of them.
When to see a doctor?
If you have splenic flexure syndrome, also called left-sided colitis, you may experience symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating. You might also have trouble passing gas or stool. These symptoms are caused by a build-up of stool in your colon.
Most people with splenic flexure syndrome can manage their symptoms at home with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. But if your symptoms are severe or don’t improve with home treatment, you may need to see a doctor.
Your doctor will likely start by asking about your medical history and doing a physical exam. They may also order tests like a colonoscopy or CT scan to rule out other conditions. If you have splenic flexure syndrome, your doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan.
Conclusion
The conclusion of this article is that splenic flexure syndrome is a real and underdiagnosed condition. It is often misdiagnosed as IBS or other gastrointestinal disorders. This syndrome can be debilitating and cause a great deal of pain. If you think you may have splenic flexure syndrome, talk to your doctor about getting a diagnosis.
Published on September 2, 2022 and Last Updated on September 2, 2022 by: Mayank Pandey
