A colonoscopy allows a doctor to see the inside of the colon. Colorectal - a term that refers to the rectum and colon . In ulcerative colitis, it is used to reduce severe inflammation . Crohn's disease - a chronic inflammatory condition of the digestive tract. Digestive tract - the system of the body that digests food.
Food is chewed and swallowed before it travels down the esophagus to the stomach .
Once there, enzymes and stomach acids mix with the food. Then, in the small intestine , enzymes break down the foods further and help absorb what's needed for the body. The colon then reabsorbs salts and fluids as well as stores waste, which is later eliminated through the rectum . Although uncommon, some people with ulcerative colitis experience edema. Depending on the area being examined, the procedure may be called a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy .