Toxic megacolon is a rare but dangerous condition that occurs when the colon swells to many times its normal size. It is usually a complication of an inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
Severe inflammation and ulceration can weaken muscles in the colon, causing the colon to swell. Symptoms may include a swollen belly, abdominal pain or tenderness, rapid heartbeat, or fever. Over time, holes (perforations) may form in the colon, and stool may spill into the abdominal cavity, causing a serious infection. This can be life-threatening.
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