Very often the outlet of the sigmoid flexure is obstructed. Figures 6 and 7 are shown to make the cause of this obstruction more clear. In Figure 7 we see the longitudinal and transverse fibers that form the wall of the rectum. In all cases of chronic ob­sti­pa­tion, the muscular structure of the anus, rectum, and frequently of a portion of the sigmoid flexure is invaded with chronic inflammation of a very severe and serious character.

Fig. 7.

A view of the longitudinal muscular fibers of a section of the rectum: 2, upper portion of the rectum; 3, 4, 5, the three bands of longitudinal fibers of the colon continued upon the rectum; 6, the longitudinal muscular fibers of the rectum formed by the expansion of those of the colon. A view of the muscular coat of the colon: 1, 1, one of the bands of longitudinal muscular fibers; 2,2, the circular fibers of the muscular coat.

What is the result of this inflammation? Self-evidently contraction of the muscular structure, as you would quickly enough discover were one of your hands or arms inflamed.

Though constant attention should be given to the much more important organ, the rectum, practically none is given it. “Out of sight, out of mind.”

Again, no doctor would diagnose an inflamed limb as paralysis, atony, etc., and dose the victim with nux vomica, tonics, physic, etc., in the hope of thereby healing it. Yet, with singular fatuity, this absurd diagnosis and treatment is given when the lower bowel is invaded with chronic inflammation.

Let the common-sense reader inform himself concerning his organism. Let him remember that he has within muscular organs that demand exactly the same attention when diseased as those without. This fact is especially important for the sufferer from con­sti­pa­tion or semi-con­sti­pa­tion to know.