Your colon — also known as the large intestine — plays a vital role in your overall health, digestion, and wellbeing. But when exploring colon health, it’s easy to come across a wide range of medical terms, anatomical references, and treatment options that can feel overwhelming.
That’s why we’ve created this straightforward glossary. Here, you’ll find clear explanations of key colon health terms — from anatomy and common conditions to diagnostic tests and treatment approaches. Whether you’re looking to better understand a diagnosis, learn more about prevention, or simply take charge of your digestive health, this glossary is designed to help.
Anatomy and Physiology of the Colon / Large Intestine
Understanding the structure and function of the colon is the foundation of good digestive health. In this section, we define key anatomical parts of the colon and explain important physiological processes — from how food moves through your system to the role of your gut bacteria.
Anatomical Structures
Colon
General term for the major part of the large intestine, responsible for absorbing water and electrolytes, forming stool, and housing gut bacteria.
Large Intestine
Another name for the colon. It connects the small intestine to the rectum and includes the cecum, colon segments, and rectum.
Cecum
The pouch-like beginning of the large intestine, where the small intestine empties digested contents. It plays a role in absorbing fluids and salts.
Appendix
A small, finger-like pouch attached to the cecum. Though its function is not fully understood, it is thought to play a role in gut immunity.
Ascending Colon
The first section of the colon, running upward along the right side of the abdomen. It absorbs water and electrolytes.
Transverse Colon
The middle section of the colon that crosses the abdomen from right to left. It continues absorption and moves waste forward.
Descending Colon
The section of colon running down the left side of the abdomen, where stool becomes more solid as water is absorbed.
Sigmoid Colon
An S-shaped segment leading to the rectum. It stores stool until ready for elimination.
Rectum
The final section of the large intestine, which temporarily stores stool before it passes through the anus.
Anus
The opening at the end of the digestive tract, through which stool is expelled during defecation.
Ileocecal Valve
A valve between the small intestine (ileum) and the large intestine (cecum), controlling the flow of contents and preventing backflow.
Haustra
Pouch-like segments along the colon wall that help move and compact waste through the colon.
Taenia Coli
Three bands of muscle running along the length of the colon, helping to move waste forward.
Epiploic Appendages
Small fat-filled pouches along the colon, the function of which is not fully understood but may play a role in immune response.
Mucosa
The innermost lining of the colon, which secretes mucus to protect the gut wall and support nutrient absorption.
Submucosa
A layer beneath the mucosa containing blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic tissue that support gut function.
Muscularis Propria
A layer of muscle responsible for the contractions that move contents through the colon.
Serosa
The outermost protective layer of the colon.
Mesentery
A fold of tissue that attaches the intestines to the abdominal wall and carries blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves. It supports and nourishes the colon.
Physiological Processes
Peristalsis
Wave-like muscle contractions that move food and waste through the digestive tract, including the colon.
Absorption (water, electrolytes)
The colon absorbs water and electrolytes (such as sodium and potassium), helping maintain fluid balance and form solid stool.
Digestion (bacterial fermentation)
In the colon, gut bacteria ferment undigested carbohydrates, producing gases and beneficial substances such as short-chain fatty acids.
Feces / Stool
The solid waste product of digestion, consisting of water, bacteria, undigested food, and cells from the intestinal lining.
Defecation
The process of eliminating stool from the body through the rectum and anus.
Gut Microbiome / Microbiota
The community of trillions of bacteria and other microbes living in the colon, essential for digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
Beneficial compounds produced when gut bacteria ferment fibre. SCFAs help nourish colon cells and support immune function.
Gut-Brain Axis
The two-way communication system between the gut and the brain. Stress and mood can influence gut function, and gut health can impact emotional wellbeing.
Transit Time
The time it takes for food to move through the entire digestive tract. Slow transit can lead to constipation; fast transit may cause diarrhoea.
Mucosal Barrier / Gut Barrier Function
A protective layer in the gut lining that prevents harmful substances from entering the bloodstream while allowing nutrient absorption.
Common Colon Conditions and Diseases
The colon can be affected by a wide range of conditions — some mild and temporary, others more serious and chronic. This section provides easy-to-understand definitions of many common colon-related diseases and disorders, helping you better recognise symptoms and terminology you may encounter in your healthcare journey.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
A group of chronic conditions where the immune system causes inflammation in the digestive tract, particularly the colon.
Crohn’s Disease
A type of IBD that can affect any part of the digestive tract, but often involves the colon. Inflammation can occur in all layers of the bowel wall and may cause pain, diarrhoea, and fatigue.
Ulcerative Colitis
An IBD that specifically affects the colon and rectum, causing continuous inflammation and ulcers in the colon’s inner lining.
Proctitis
Inflammation of the rectum. It may cause rectal pain, bleeding, and an urgent need to pass stool.
Pancolitis
Inflammation affecting the entire colon, usually as a severe form of ulcerative colitis.
Fistula
An abnormal tunnel that forms between the intestine and another part of the body, such as the skin or bladder. Common in severe Crohn’s disease.
Abscess
A collection of pus caused by infection, which may develop near the colon or rectum.
Stricture
A narrowing of part of the colon due to scarring or chronic inflammation, which can block the passage of stool.
Perianal Disease
Inflammation and complications (fistulas, abscesses, fissures) that occur around the anus, often associated with Crohn’s disease.
Pseudomembranous Colitis
A severe inflammation of the colon usually caused by an overgrowth of C. difficile bacteria, often after antibiotic use.
Radiation Proctitis
Inflammation and damage to the rectum following radiation therapy, typically used to treat cancers in the pelvic area.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
A common functional gut disorder that affects how the colon works but does not cause visible inflammation or damage.
IBS-C (constipation-predominant)
A type of IBS where constipation is the main symptom.
IBS-D (diarrhoea-predominant)
A type of IBS where diarrhoea is the main symptom.
IBS-M (mixed)
A type of IBS where symptoms alternate between constipation and diarrhoea.
Post-infectious IBS
IBS symptoms that develop after an acute gastrointestinal infection.
Visceral Hypersensitivity
Increased sensitivity of the nerves in the gut, which can cause discomfort and bloating even when there is no obvious disease.
Diverticular Disease
A condition where small pouches (diverticula) form in the colon wall.
Diverticulosis
The presence of diverticula. Often causes no symptoms but may lead to complications.
Diverticulitis
Inflammation or infection of diverticula, causing pain (usually in the lower left abdomen), fever, and changes in bowel habits.
Diverticulum
A single pouch or pocket that forms in the colon wall.
Polyps and Cancer
Polyp
A small growth on the inner lining of the colon. Most are benign but some can develop into cancer.
Adenoma
A type of polyp that can potentially become cancerous.
Hyperplastic Polyp
A common type of benign polyp with a very low risk of becoming cancerous.
Sessile Serrated Adenoma (SSA)
A type of polyp with a flat shape and a higher risk of progressing to cancer.
Traditional Serrated Adenoma (TSA)
A less common type of serrated polyp that can also increase cancer risk.
Dysplasia (low-grade, high-grade)
Abnormal cell changes in the colon lining that may be a precursor to cancer.
Carcinoma in situ
An early form of cancer where abnormal cells are confined to the surface layer and have not yet invaded deeper tissues.
Colorectal Cancer (CRC)
Cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It is one of the most common cancers and often develops from polyps over time.
Metastasis
The spread of cancer cells from the colon to other parts of the body.
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)
An inherited condition causing hundreds to thousands of polyps in the colon, greatly increasing the risk of colorectal cancer.
Lynch Syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer - HNPCC)
An inherited disorder that increases the risk of colorectal cancer and other types of cancer, often at a younger age.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Functional Issues
Many people experience digestive symptoms from time to time — such as bloating, gas, or changes in bowel habits. This section defines common symptoms and functional issues related to the colon, helping you understand what these terms mean and when they may warrant further attention.
Bloating
A feeling of fullness, tightness, or swelling in the abdomen, often caused by trapped gas, changes in gut bacteria, or food intolerances.
Gas / Flatulence
The release of gas from the digestive tract through the rectum. Often caused by fermentation of undigested food by gut bacteria.
Abdominal Pain / Discomfort
Pain or discomfort felt anywhere in the abdomen, ranging from mild to severe. It may be crampy, sharp, dull, or constant.
Constipation
Difficulty passing stool, infrequent bowel movements, or passing hard, dry stool. Can be caused by diet, lifestyle, medications, or underlying conditions.
Diarrhoea
Frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements. Can result from infections, food intolerances, or digestive disorders.
Nausea
A sensation of feeling sick or an urge to vomit, sometimes linked to digestive disturbances.
Vomiting
Forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth, often occurring with nausea.
Heartburn / GERD
A burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid flowing back into the oesophagus. Though it primarily affects the upper digestive tract, it can be associated with bloating and gas.
Urgency
A sudden, strong need to have a bowel movement that can be difficult to control — commonly seen in IBD, IBS, and infections.
Other Conditions
SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)
An excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine, which can cause bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort.
Haemorrhoids
Swollen blood vessels in the anus or lower rectum, which can cause pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements.
Anal Fissure
A small tear in the lining of the anus, causing pain and sometimes bleeding during or after bowel movements.
Fecal Incontinence
The inability to control bowel movements, leading to unintentional leakage of stool.
Megacolon / Toxic Megacolon
A severe complication where the colon becomes massively dilated and may lose its ability to function. Toxic megacolon is life-threatening and often linked to severe IBD or infections.
Volvulus
A twisting of the colon, which can block the bowel and cut off blood supply — a medical emergency.
Ischaemic Colitis
Reduced blood flow to the colon, causing pain, cramping, and bleeding. Often occurs in older adults.
Microscopic Colitis
A cause of chronic, watery diarrhoea. The colon may appear normal during a colonoscopy, but inflammation is seen under the microscope. Includes:
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Collagenous Colitis
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Lymphocytic Colitis
C. difficile Infection (clostridioides difficile)
An infection causing severe diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and inflammation of the colon, often after antibiotic use.
Bowel Obstruction
A blockage that prevents stool or gas from passing through the intestines — can cause pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
Intussusception
A condition where one part of the intestine slides into another, causing blockage. More common in children but can occur in adults.
Proctalgia Fugax
Sudden, severe rectal pain that comes and goes without a clear cause.
Rectal Prolapse
A condition where part of the rectum slips out through the anus, often seen in older adults.
Food Intolerance
Difficulty digesting certain foods, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Common examples:
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Lactose Intolerance
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Fructose Malabsorption
Celiac Disease
An autoimmune condition where eating gluten (a protein in wheat, barley, rye) damages the small intestine, but can also cause colon-related symptoms such as diarrhoea, bloating, and nutrient malabsorption.
Dysbiosis
An imbalance of gut bacteria. When the normal microbial balance is disrupted, it can lead to bloating, gas, diarrhoea, constipation, and other digestive symptoms.
Diagnostic Procedures and Tests
If you’re undergoing evaluation for colon health, your healthcare provider may recommend a range of tests and procedures. This section explains what these tests involve — from simple stool tests to more advanced imaging — so you can feel more informed and prepared.
Imaging
Colonoscopy
A procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon to examine its lining and take biopsies if needed. Commonly used to screen for polyps and cancer and investigate symptoms like bleeding.
Sigmoidoscopy (flexible sigmoidoscopy)
Similar to a colonoscopy, but only examines the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon and rectum).
Virtual Colonoscopy (CT colonography)
A non-invasive scan using CT imaging to create a detailed picture of the colon.
Barium Enema
An older test where the colon is filled with barium contrast and X-rays are taken to look for abnormalities.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
An imaging test that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the bowel and surrounding tissues — useful for assessing IBD or complex fistulas.
CT Scan (computed tomography)
A series of X-rays that provide cross-sectional images of the abdomen. Often used to detect inflammation, obstructions, or tumours.
Abdominal X-ray
A simple X-ray of the abdomen, sometimes used to detect blockages or large amounts of gas.
Capsule Endoscopy
A tiny camera inside a pill is swallowed to take images throughout the digestive tract, including areas that are harder to reach with traditional scopes.
Transit Study (or sitz marker study)
A test that measures how quickly food moves through the colon by tracking markers on X-rays over several days. Helpful for assessing constipation.
Pelvic MRI
An MRI scan focused on the pelvic area, often used to evaluate complex fistulas, rectal cancer, or pelvic floor problems.
Lab Tests
Stool Test
Tests for hidden blood or abnormal substances in stool.
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Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): detects microscopic blood in stool.
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Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): a more modern, specific test for blood, often used in colorectal cancer screening.
Calprotectin (Fecal Calprotectin)
A marker of inflammation in the bowel. Helps distinguish IBD from IBS.
Lactoferrin (fecal lactoferrin)
Another stool marker indicating intestinal inflammation.
Blood Tests
Various blood tests can help assess health and look for signs of disease:
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CBC (Complete Blood Count): checks for anaemia or infection.
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CRP (C-reactive Protein) / ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate): markers of inflammation.
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Electrolytes: assesses fluid balance.
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Liver Function Tests & Kidney Function Tests: monitor organ health, which can be affected by digestive disorders.
Biopsy
A small sample of tissue taken during colonoscopy or surgery, examined under a microscope to check for cancer, inflammation, or other abnormalities.
Breath Test
Non-invasive test used to diagnose:
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SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)
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Lactose Intolerance
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Fructose Malabsorption
Measures hydrogen or methane gases produced when the body ferments certain sugars.
Genetic Testing
Used to detect inherited conditions such as:
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FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis)
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Lynch Syndrome (HNPCC)
Helps identify people at higher risk of colorectal cancer.
Other Procedures
Anorectal Manometry
Measures the strength and coordination of the muscles around the rectum and anus. Used to evaluate constipation or faecal incontinence.
Defecography
An imaging test that shows how well the rectum and pelvic floor work during a bowel movement.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
Combines endoscopy and ultrasound to provide detailed images of the bowel wall and surrounding tissues — useful for assessing tumours or staging cancer.
Treatment and Management
Treatment of colon-related issues can include a wide variety of medications, surgical procedures, and lifestyle approaches. This section outlines the most common options, helping you understand the terminology your doctor or specialist may use when discussing your care.
Medications
Anti-inflammatory Drugs
Medications that reduce inflammation in the bowel. Commonly used in IBD.
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Aminosalicylates (5-ASA): help manage mild to moderate inflammation.
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Corticosteroids: stronger anti-inflammatories used for flares.
Immunosuppressants
Medications that suppress the immune system to control chronic inflammation in IBD.
Examples: Azathioprine, Methotrexate.
Biologics / Biologic Therapy
Advanced medications made from living cells that target specific immune pathways involved in inflammation.
Examples:
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Anti-TNF drugs (e.g. infliximab)
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Anti-Integrin drugs
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IL-12/23 inhibitors
Used for moderate to severe IBD or when other treatments don’t work.
Antibiotics
Used to treat infections and certain gut imbalances. For example:
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Rifaximin — used to treat SIBO.
Prokinetics
Medications that help stimulate bowel movement, used in certain types of constipation or slow gut transit.
Laxatives
Help relieve constipation. Types include:
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Osmotic laxatives — draw water into the bowel (e.g. lactulose).
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Stimulant laxatives — stimulate bowel muscles (e.g. senna).
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Bulk-forming laxatives — add fibre to stool (e.g. psyllium).
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Stool softeners — make stool easier to pass.
Anti-diarrhoeals
Medications that help reduce diarrhoea by slowing bowel movement (e.g. loperamide).
Antispasmodics
Medications that relax gut muscles to relieve cramping, pain, and bloating, often used in IBS.
Probiotics
Live beneficial bacteria that may help improve gut microbiota balance and reduce symptoms such as bloating or diarrhoea.
Prebiotics
Non-digestible fibres that feed beneficial gut bacteria, supporting overall colon health.
Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT)
A treatment where processed stool from a healthy donor is transplanted into the colon of someone with severe dysbiosis or C. difficile infection. Helps restore a healthy microbiome.
Surgical Procedures
Colectomy (partial, total)
Surgery to remove part or all of the colon. Used in severe cases of IBD, cancer, or other serious colon diseases.
Hemicolectomy
Removal of either the right or left half of the colon.
Proctocolectomy
Removal of both the colon and rectum — often followed by creation of an ileostomy or J-pouch.
Ileostomy
A surgical opening (stoma) where the small intestine is brought to the skin surface to allow waste to exit the body.
Colostomy
A surgical opening (stoma) where part of the colon is brought to the skin surface to allow waste to exit.
J-Pouch (ileal pouch-anal anastomosis - IPAA)
A surgical procedure where the small intestine is used to create a new reservoir (pouch) to store and pass stool after the colon and rectum are removed.
Polypectomy
Removal of polyps during a colonoscopy — helps prevent colorectal cancer.
Stricturoplasty
Surgery to widen a narrowed section (stricture) of the intestine without removing it — often used in Crohn’s disease.
Fistulectomy
Surgical removal of a fistula — an abnormal connection between two body parts (common in severe Crohn’s disease).
Lifestyle and Dietary Interventions
Supporting your colon health often starts with everyday choices. This section highlights key diet and lifestyle strategies — from fibre intake to stress management — that can contribute to better digestive function and overall wellbeing.
Fibre (soluble, insoluble)
Fibre is essential for healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
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Soluble fibre (found in oats, apples, citrus fruits) dissolves in water to form a gel, helping to soften stool and support gut bacteria.
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Insoluble fibre (found in whole grains, nuts, vegetables) adds bulk to stool and helps it move through the colon.
Balancing fibre intake is important, as too much too quickly can cause bloating or discomfort.
Hydration
Drinking enough water is vital for maintaining a healthy colon. It helps keep stool soft and easier to pass, preventing constipation.
Exercise
Regular physical activity helps stimulate natural gut movement (peristalsis) and supports a healthy digestive system. Even light exercise, such as walking, can improve colon function.
Stress Management
The gut-brain axis means that stress can significantly affect gut health. Techniques such as:
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Deep breathing
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Meditation
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Yoga
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Mindfulness
can all help reduce stress and improve digestive comfort.
Low-FODMAP Diet
A carefully structured diet that reduces certain fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs) that can cause bloating and discomfort — especially helpful for people with IBS. This diet should ideally be followed with professional guidance.
Elimination Diet
A short-term diet used to identify food intolerances. Potential trigger foods are removed and gradually reintroduced to determine which ones may be causing symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation.
Nutritional Support
For those who struggle to maintain adequate nutrition due to digestive disease, nutritional support may include:
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Enteral nutrition — liquid nutrition provided through a feeding tube.
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Parenteral nutrition — nutrition delivered directly into the bloodstream (used when the gut cannot process food).
Biofeedback Therapy
A technique that helps people learn to control muscles involved in bowel movements, especially helpful for:
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Chronic constipation
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Faecal incontinence
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Pelvic floor dysfunction
It uses special sensors and visual or auditory feedback to improve muscle coordination.
Alternative and Complementary Approaches
Many people explore alternative or complementary therapies to support colon health. While some approaches show promise, others are not supported by strong scientific evidence. In this section, we explain these terms clearly — helping you separate useful options from myths.
(Please note: While many people explore complementary approaches for colon health, it is important to understand what is supported by scientific evidence — and what is not. This section provides clear explanations so you can make informed decisions.)
Mucoid Plaque
A term used in some alternative health circles to describe supposed layers of “plaque” or waste coating the colon.
Important: There is no scientific evidence that mucoid plaque exists as a harmful substance requiring removal. The normal colon naturally sheds cells and does not accumulate layers of waste in this way. Claims that mucoid plaque must be “cleansed” are considered pseudoscientific by mainstream medicine.
Colon Hydrotherapy / Colonic Irrigation
A procedure where large amounts of water are introduced into the colon via the rectum to “cleanse” it.
Important: There is little scientific support for routine colon hydrotherapy. Potential risks include dehydration, infection, bowel perforation, and disruption of the gut microbiome. It is not generally recommended by mainstream medical organisations for improving colon health.
Herbal Remedies
Certain herbs are traditionally used to support digestion and bowel function — such as peppermint, ginger, fennel, and others.
Caution: Some herbs may help with mild symptoms like bloating or gas, but strong herbal laxatives can cause dependency or harm with long-term use. Always seek advice from a healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you have an existing digestive condition.
OxyTech
A natural colon conditioner that combines magnesium, oxygen, and bioflavonoids to gently break down and eliminate waste in the colon. OxyTech is designed to work without harsh laxatives, fibre bulk, or artificial ingredients. Many users have found it helpful for symptoms such as bloating, constipation, gas, and fatigue. While not a cure for underlying disease, OxyTech can be a supportive part of maintaining regularity and a healthy gut environment.
Pelvic Floor Therapy / Physical Therapy
A specialised form of physical therapy that helps retrain the muscles of the pelvic floor — particularly useful for:
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Chronic constipation
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Faecal incontinence
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Pelvic floor dysfunction
Pelvic floor therapy is supported by scientific evidence and is often recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Activated Charcoal
Sometimes promoted as a natural remedy for bloating and gas. Activated charcoal can bind to gas in the gut and reduce bloating in some cases.
Caution: The evidence is mixed, and it may interfere with absorption of medications and nutrients. Activated charcoal should only be used occasionally and under medical advice.
General Medical and Colon Health Terminology
Finally, this section covers general medical terms and colon health concepts you may encounter in articles, conversations with healthcare providers, or patient resources. Understanding these terms will help you navigate your digestive health with greater confidence.
Gastroenterology / Gastroenterologist
Gastroenterology is the medical field that focuses on the digestive system. A Gastroenterologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive tract, including the colon.
Colorectal Surgeon
A surgeon who specialises in operations involving the colon, rectum, and anus — often involved in treating colorectal cancer, IBD, and other complex colon conditions.
Pathologist
A doctor who examines tissue samples (such as biopsies) under a microscope to diagnose disease, including cancer and inflammatory conditions.
Prognosis
The expected outcome or course of a disease — how well a person is likely to do over time.
Remission
A period when symptoms improve or disappear, especially in chronic conditions like IBD.
Flare-up
A worsening of symptoms after a period of remission — common in chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
Screening
Tests done to detect disease early, often before symptoms appear — e.g. screening for colorectal cancer using FIT tests or colonoscopy.
Prevention
Steps taken to reduce the risk of developing a disease — such as adopting a healthy diet or participating in screening programmes.
Risk Factors
Behaviours, conditions, or genetic traits that increase the likelihood of developing a disease (e.g. family history of colorectal cancer).
Symptoms
Signs or sensations reported by the patient that may indicate illness — such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, or fatigue.
Diagnosis
The process of identifying a disease or condition, based on symptoms, test results, and medical evaluation.
Therapy
A broad term referring to any treatment or intervention used to manage a disease — includes medications, surgery, lifestyle changes, and complementary approaches.
Benign
Non-cancerous. A benign tumour or polyp does not spread to other parts of the body.
Malignant
Cancerous. A malignant tumour has the potential to invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body.
Inflammation
The body’s response to injury or irritation, often causing redness, swelling, pain, and impaired function — central to conditions like IBD.
Dysbiosis
An imbalance in the gut microbiome — when harmful bacteria outnumber beneficial ones, potentially contributing to symptoms such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea.
Autoimmune Disease
A condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues — IBD is an example affecting the digestive tract.
Chronic Disease
A disease that lasts for a long time, often requiring ongoing management — such as IBD or colorectal cancer.
Acute Condition
A short-term illness or flare that comes on suddenly and is often severe, but may resolve with appropriate treatment.
Patient Advocacy
Efforts by patients, healthcare providers, or organisations to support patient rights and improve access to care — important in chronic disease management.
Comorbidity
When a person has two or more medical conditions at the same time — for example, someone with IBD and arthritis.
Quality of Life (QoL)
A measure of how a person’s wellbeing, comfort, and ability to enjoy life are affected by their health and treatments.
Shared Decision-Making
A collaborative approach where patients and healthcare providers work together to make treatment decisions based on medical evidence and the patient’s preferences and values.
Take Charge of Your Colon Health
We hope this glossary has helped you better understand the many terms and concepts connected to colon health. Whether you’re managing a diagnosed condition, trying to prevent future problems, or simply aiming to feel your best every day, being informed is an important first step.
Remember — good colon health is about more than just avoiding illness. It’s about supporting a healthy gut environment, maintaining regularity, promoting energy and vitality, and enhancing your overall quality of life.
One gentle and effective way many of our readers support their colon health is by using OxyTech — Dulwich Health’s trusted Advanced Oxygen Technology colon conditioner.
OxyTech is designed to work gently, safely and effectively, helping to cleanse the colon, reduce bloating, and support better absorption of nutrients — all without harsh laxatives or bulky fibre.
If you’d like to explore how OxyTech could support your own digestive wellbeing, we invite you to learn more here and discover why it remains a popular choice for so many of our customers.
Here’s to a lighter, healthier you — and to taking charge of your colon health with knowledge and confidence.
