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    Spastic colon: What does it mean?

    By Mayo Clinic Staff
    Nov. 05, 2024

    What is spastic colon?

    Spastic colon is an outdated term that's sometimes used to refer to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a common digestive condition involving belly cramps and pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

    Medical professionals used the term "spastic colon" to describe the irregular contractions of muscles in the intestines related to IBS. The contractions are sometimes called spasms. However, there are several reasons why people with IBS may experience symptoms, so the term "spastic colon" isn't an accurate description for IBS.

    The cause and seriousness of IBS is different from person to person. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and may include:

    1. Changing eating habits.
    2. Increasing physical activity.
    3. Reducing stress.
    4. Possibly taking anticholinergic medicines to help treat spasms.
    1. Ferri FF. Irritable bowel syndrome. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2021. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Oct. 20, 2020.
    2. Wald A. Pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Oct. 20, 2020.
    3. Medical review (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Oct. 20, 2020.

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