Essay On Small Intestine

The small intestine connects the stomach to the cecum which is the first part of the colon and is usually in the lower right abdomen. The large intestine, known as the colon, is part of the gut and connects the small intestine to the anus (back passage). The colon is divided into four main parts: the ascending colon which travels up to the upper right side of the abdomen, the transverse colon which travels across the abdomen, the descending colon which runs down to the left, the sigmoid colon which curves down up to the rectum. The rectum is the place where faeces are stored before going through the anal canal (Figure 1).

Physiology of the bowel

The colon is an important apparatus of the human body and its main functions are to reabsorb

Prior to the procedure, the doctor needs to have a clear view of your colon and hence to give you a bowel preparation. This medication normally causes frequent bowel motions, sometimes stomach cramps and diarrhea. It is strongly recommended to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and side effects (dizziness, headache, faint).

Seven days before the procedure you should stop taking iron tablets until after the procedure. If Clopidrogel is one of your regular medications you must stop taking it until after the procedure, but you are advised to check with your General Practitioner or your Cardiologist whether you can stop taking it without any replacement medication.

Five days before your colonoscopy you should stop taking anticoagulants. If anticoagulants are part of your regular medications you must stop taking them until after the procedure, but you are advised to check with your General Practitioner or your Cardiologist whether you can stop taking them without any replacement medication.

It is also advised to stop taking any constipating medicines. All other regular medications can be taken regularly.

It is also recommended to drink plenty of fluids and have a low fibre diet in the last 48