The large intestine is one part of the human digestive system. This organ is known for its role in the digestion of food. To know the importance of the large intestine for health, learn more about the anatomy and function of the large intestine below.
The large intestine is the final part of the human digestive system. This organ has various functions, such as absorbing fluids and vitamins, producing antibodies and preventing infection, and forming feces.
Anatomy of the large intestine and its function
The large intestine is divided into four main parts with different functions. The following is an explanation of the four parts of the large intestine and their functions:
cecum
The cecum is a pouch-shaped part of the large intestine that connects the end of the small intestine (ileum) with the large intestine. The rest of the food from the small intestine that enters the cecum is generally still in the form of liquid slurry.chyme).
In this part of the large intestine, there is re-absorption of nutrients and residual water from the intestine chyme.
Colon
The colon is the longest part of the large intestine and is divided into four parts, namely the ascending (right abdominal cavity), transverse (transverse from right to left at the top of the abdominal cavity), descending (left abdominal cavity), and sigmoid (the part connected to the stomach). rectum).
The main function of the colon is to mix chyme with enzymes in the digestive tract to become feces to be excreted from the body. The colon must reabsorb water and electrolytes to form stool. This is why, when you are dehydrated, you can experience constipation.
rectum
The rectum is the lower part of the large intestine which measures about 15 cm and is connected to the sigmoid colon. This part of the large intestine functions to receive and store waste from the colon until it is time for it to be excreted by the body through the anus.
When there is waste such as gas or feces into the rectum, there will be sensors that send stimuli to the brain. Furthermore, the nervous system in the brain will give a signal when the gas or stool is expelled.
Anus
The anus is the final part of the large intestine. When the rectum is full and the stool is ready to pass through the anus, you will feel heartburn and an urge to defecate.
The process of processing and digesting food into feces generally takes approximately 30–70 hours.
Various Complaints That Can Occur in the Large Intestine
It is important to always maintain a healthy digestive system, including the large intestine, in order to function properly in processing food. However, there are times when the large intestine experiences disorders that can trigger several diseases, including:
1. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is characterized by more frequent bowel movements and watery stools. In general, diarrhea occurs due to consumption of unhygienic food or drink or exposure to viruses, bacteria, and parasites.
In addition to some of the causes above, diarrhea can also occur due to intolerance to certain foods, side effects of drugs, and food malabsorption.
2. Colon bleeding
Colon bleeding is included in the lower gastrointestinal tract. This condition is generally characterized by fresh red blood from the anus or blood mixed with feces.
Some diseases that can cause colon bleeding, namely colitis, colon cancer, diverticulitis, and hemorrhoids.
3. Colon cancer
Colon cancer is caused by changes or mutations in genes in the colon tissue. However, the cause of this gene mutation is not known with certainty.
However, there are several factors that are thought to be at risk of increasing the occurrence of colon cancer, such as a diet lacking in fiber, consuming too much red meat and fat, and high sugar levels.
4. Polypscolon
Colon polyps are small lumps that grow on the inside of the large intestine. These lumps are generally harmless, but some types of colon polyps can develop into colon cancer.
There are several factors that can increase a person's risk of developing colon polyps, including smokers, people who are overweight, and there is a family history of having colon polyps.
5. Colitis
Colitis is inflammation of the large intestine usually caused by infection or an autoimmune reaction. Symptoms that appear depending on the type of colitis suffered. However, the typical symptoms shown by colitis sufferers are bloody diarrhea, fever, and chills.
6. Crohn's disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic disease disorder that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. This disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, including the large intestine.
Symptoms of Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition. Crohn's disease can also increase your risk of developing colon cancer.
7. Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is inflammation of the diverticula, which are sacs that form along the lining of the intestine.
This condition is generally caused by pressure from gas, food, or fluid in the lining of the intestines to form small pouches. Diverticulitis most often occurs in the large intestine, specifically in the lower part of the large intestine.
The large intestine is one of the digestive organs that has an important function. Thanks to the work of this organ system, you can get nutrients and energy from the food and drinks you eat.
To maintain colon health, you are advised to eat nutritious foods, including high fiber and low calories. If you experience symptoms of colon disorders and do not subside, immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.