What are the main types of colitis. How is colitis diagnosed. What are the most effective treatments for managing colitis. Can diet and lifestyle changes help reduce colitis symptoms. What complications can arise from untreated colitis.

What is Colitis? An Overview of this Inflammatory Bowel Condition

Colitis refers to inflammation of the inner lining of the colon (large intestine). This chronic inflammatory condition can have several underlying causes, with ulcerative colitis being one of the most common types. Colitis typically develops between ages 15-35 or 55-70 and is characterized by symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloody stools.

While there is currently no cure for colitis, various treatment options are available to manage symptoms and reduce inflammation. Understanding the different types of colitis, their causes, and available therapies is crucial for those affected by this condition.

Types of Colitis: From Ulcerative Colitis to Microscopic Colitis

Colitis can manifest in several forms, each with its unique characteristics:

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is the most prevalent form of colitis. It causes inflammation and ulcers in the innermost lining of the colon and rectum. This condition typically begins in the rectum and can spread upwards to affect part or all of the colon.

Crohn’s Disease

While not strictly a form of colitis, Crohn’s disease is another type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect the colon. Unlike ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s can impact any part of the digestive tract from mouth to anus.

Microscopic Colitis

This type of colitis can only be diagnosed through microscopic examination of colon tissue. It includes two main subtypes: lymphocytic colitis and collagenous colitis.

Other Types

• Ischemic colitis: Caused by reduced blood flow to the colon
• Infectious colitis: Resulting from bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections
• Chemical colitis: Induced by exposure to certain chemicals or medications

Causes and Risk Factors: Unraveling the Complexity of Colitis

The exact causes of colitis remain unclear, but researchers believe several factors contribute to its development:

Genetic Factors

A family history of inflammatory bowel disease increases the risk of developing colitis. Certain genetic mutations may make individuals more susceptible to the condition.

Immune System Dysfunction

An abnormal immune response to harmless bacteria in the colon may trigger inflammation. This overreaction of the immune system is a key factor in the development of colitis.

Environmental Triggers

Various environmental factors may contribute to colitis onset or exacerbation:

• Diet high in processed foods
• Stress
• Certain medications
• Smoking (particularly for Crohn’s disease)

Microbiome Imbalance

Disruptions in the gut microbiome, the community of microorganisms living in the digestive tract, may play a role in colitis development.

Recognizing Colitis: Common Symptoms and Warning Signs

Colitis symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common signs include:

• Persistent diarrhea, often with blood or mucus
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Urgency to have a bowel movement
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite

Is rectal bleeding always a sign of colitis? While rectal bleeding is a common symptom of colitis, especially ulcerative colitis, it’s not always present. Some forms of colitis, like microscopic colitis, may not cause visible bleeding.

Diagnosing Colitis: Medical Tests and Procedures

Accurate diagnosis of colitis involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests:

Blood Tests

Blood tests can reveal signs of inflammation, anemia, or infection. They may also help rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Stool Tests

Analyzing stool samples can detect the presence of blood, inflammation markers, or infectious agents that might be causing colitis symptoms.

Endoscopic Procedures

Colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy allow doctors to visually examine the colon and rectum for signs of inflammation, ulcers, or other abnormalities. Biopsies may be taken during these procedures for further analysis.

Imaging Studies

CT scans, MRI, or X-rays may be used to assess the extent of inflammation and rule out complications like perforations or strictures.

How long does it typically take to diagnose colitis? The diagnosis process can vary, but it often takes several weeks to complete all necessary tests and rule out other conditions. In some cases, particularly with microscopic colitis, diagnosis may take longer due to the need for tissue analysis.

Treatment Approaches: Managing Colitis and Improving Quality of Life

While there’s no cure for colitis, various treatment options can help control inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and prevent complications:

Medications

Several types of drugs may be prescribed to manage colitis:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., aminosalicylates, corticosteroids)
• Immunosuppressants
• Biologics
• Antibiotics
• Antidiarrheal medications

Dietary Modifications

Adjusting diet can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. This may involve:

• Identifying and avoiding trigger foods
• Increasing fluid intake
• Consuming smaller, more frequent meals
• Considering probiotic supplements

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle modifications can support overall health and potentially reduce colitis symptoms:

• Stress management techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga)
• Regular exercise
• Quitting smoking
• Getting adequate sleep

Surgery

In severe cases or when complications arise, surgery may be necessary. This could involve removing the affected portion of the colon or, in some cases, the entire colon and rectum.

Can colitis be cured completely? While colitis cannot be cured entirely, many people achieve long-term remission with proper treatment and management. The goal of treatment is to control inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and prevent complications.

Complications of Colitis: Understanding Potential Risks

Untreated or poorly managed colitis can lead to various complications:

Colon Cancer

Long-standing colitis, particularly ulcerative colitis, increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Regular screening is crucial for early detection.

Malnutrition

Chronic inflammation and diarrhea can interfere with nutrient absorption, leading to malnutrition and deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.

Toxic Megacolon

This rare but serious complication occurs when the colon becomes severely dilated, potentially leading to perforation.

Osteoporosis

Chronic inflammation and long-term use of corticosteroids can increase the risk of bone loss and fractures.

Liver Disease

Some forms of colitis, particularly ulcerative colitis, are associated with an increased risk of certain liver conditions, such as primary sclerosing cholangitis.

How often should individuals with colitis undergo cancer screening? Guidelines typically recommend that people with ulcerative colitis begin colorectal cancer screening 8-10 years after diagnosis, with follow-up screenings every 1-3 years depending on individual risk factors.

Living with Colitis: Strategies for Coping and Thriving

Managing colitis extends beyond medical treatment. Here are some strategies to help individuals cope with the condition and improve their quality of life:

Support Groups

Joining support groups can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community. Many organizations offer both in-person and online support groups for individuals with colitis.

Mental Health Care

Living with a chronic condition like colitis can take a toll on mental health. Consider working with a therapist or counselor to address anxiety, depression, or stress related to the condition.

Nutrition Counseling

A registered dietitian can help develop a personalized nutrition plan that meets your dietary needs while avoiding trigger foods.

Alternative Therapies

Some individuals find relief through complementary therapies such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, or mindfulness practices. Always consult with your healthcare provider before trying any alternative treatments.

Pregnancy Planning

Women with colitis who wish to become pregnant should work closely with their healthcare team to manage the condition before and during pregnancy.

How does colitis affect daily life? Colitis can significantly impact daily activities, work, and social life. Symptoms like frequent bathroom visits, fatigue, and pain can be disruptive. However, with proper management and support, many individuals with colitis lead fulfilling lives and successfully manage their condition.

Research and Future Directions: Advancing Colitis Treatment

Ongoing research offers hope for improved understanding and treatment of colitis:

Microbiome Studies

Researchers are investigating the role of gut bacteria in colitis development and progression. This could lead to new therapies targeting the microbiome.

Personalized Medicine

Advances in genetic testing and biomarker identification may allow for more tailored treatment approaches based on individual patient characteristics.

Novel Therapies

New classes of medications, including small molecule drugs and cell-based therapies, are being developed and tested for colitis treatment.

Improved Diagnostic Tools

Research into non-invasive diagnostic methods, such as blood-based biomarkers or advanced imaging techniques, may lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of colitis.

Diet and Nutrition Research

Studies are exploring the impact of specific diets and nutritional interventions on colitis symptoms and disease progression.

What are the most promising areas of colitis research? While all areas of research hold potential, personalized medicine approaches and microbiome-based therapies are generating significant interest. These could lead to more targeted and effective treatments with fewer side effects.

Ulcerative Colitis – NIDDK

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Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in which abnormal reactions of the immune system cause inflammation and ulcers on the inner lining of your large intestine. Ulcerative colitis can develop at any age, but the disease is more likely to develop in people between the ages of 15 and 30.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis vary from person to person and may include diarrhea, passing blood with your stool, and abdominal pain. Experts aren’t sure what causes ulcerative colitis but think genes, abnormal immune reactions, the microbiome, and the environment play a role.

To diagnose ulcerative colitis, doctors review your symptoms and medical and family history and perform a physical exam and tests. Medical tests may include blood tests, stool tests, and endoscopy of the large intestine.

Doctors typically treat ulcerative colitis with medicines to reduce inflammation in the large intestine and help bring on and maintain remission. In some cases, doctors may recommend surgery to treat ulcerative colitis or complications.

Ulcerative colitis symptoms may cause some people to lose their appetite and eat less, and they may not get enough nutrients. If you have ulcerative colitis, you should eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and other components of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conduct and support research into many diseases and conditions.

Related Conditions & Diseases

• Diarrhea
• Crohn’s Disease
• Microscopic Colitis

   

Related Diagnostic Tests

• Colonoscopy
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

   

The digestive system is made up of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract—also called the digestive tract—and the liver, pancreas, and the gallbladder. The GI tract is a series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus.

Related Research

See more about digestive diseases research at NIDDK.

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Definition & Facts

This content is provided as a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
(NIDDK), part of the National Institutes of Health. The NIDDK translates and disseminates research findings to increase knowledge and understanding about health and disease among patients, health professionals, and the public. Content produced by the NIDDK is carefully reviewed by NIDDK scientists and other experts.

The NIDDK would like to thank:
Adam Cheifetz, M.D., Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

What is colitis? Definition, types, symptoms, treatment, and more

Colitis is the inflammation of the lining of the colon. Many different conditions can cause this to happen.

The most common type of colitis is ulcerative colitis. With this type, ulcers or sores develop in the stomach. The inflammation extends from the rectum along the inner lining of the colon.

Types and causes of colitis may differ, but most symptoms overlap. How the condition affects an individual varies from person to person.

This article will discuss the different types of colitis. It will also look at the causes and risk factors, as well as when to contact a doctor.

Colitis refers to inflammation within the lining of the colon. This can occur due to several different conditions. The main two are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, both of which are types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

With colitis, the lining of the colon becomes inflamed as a reaction to harmless bacteria and molecules present in food.

Colitis is often a lifelong condition, and there is currently no cure. However, there are treatment options available to help manage the condition.

Colitis typically develops when people are within the age brackets of 15–35 years or 55–70 years.

Ulcerative colitis is the most common variation of colitis. It begins in the rectum and spreads up the colon in different ways, depending on the type.

People with chronic ulcerative colitis may experience episodes of acute severe colitis during their lifetime.

Acute severe ulcerative colitis is a condition that can be life threatening and almost always requires hospitalization to balance out fluids and electrolytes and, in some cases, to obtain nutritional support.

Although most people do not experience extreme flare-ups, an estimated 20% of those with chronic colitis may experience a severe flare-up that requires hospitalization.

Learn more about ulcerative colitis here.

Some types of ulcerative colitis include:

Ulcerative proctitis

This type of colitis is limited to the rectum. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation note that there is not an increased risk of cancer.

Symptoms of ulcerative proctitis can include:

• rectal pain
• urgent bowel movements
• rectal bleeding

Left sided colitis

Inflammation begins at the rectum and continues along the left side of the colon. It can also include proctosigmoiditis, which affects the rectum and lower part of the colon above the rectum, or the sigmoid colon.

Symptoms of left sided colitis may include:

• weight loss
• appetite loss
• pain on the left side of the abdomen
• bloody diarrhea

Extensive colitis

This condition affects most of the colon. In the case of pancolitis, it affects all of the colon.

Symptoms of extensive colitis include:

• weight loss
• appetite loss
• bloody diarrhea
• abdominal pain

Causes

Ulcerative colitis can occur due to:

• genetics
• atypical immune reactions
• the microbiome of the digestive tract
• environment

Crohn’s colitis is one of several types of Crohn’s disease. Unlike other variations of the condition, Crohn’s colitis only affects the colon.

Symptoms overlap between Crohn’s conditions, but people with Crohn’s colitis are more likely to develop skin lesions and joint pain.

Some other symptoms include:

• rectal bleeding
• diarrhea
• abscesses, fistulas, and ulcers around the anus

Causes

Crohn’s colitis may occur due to:

• genetics
• an autoimmune reaction
• smoking
• the gut microbiome
• some medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

A healthcare professional can only see microscopic colitis with a microscope.

There are two types of microscopic colitis: lymphocytic and collagenous.

With the lymphocytic type, there is a higher number of white blood cells than usual, and the lining of the colon is of a normal thickness.

With the collagenous type, the layer of collagen under the epithelium is thicker than usual.

The symptoms of each type are similar. A person will typically experience watery diarrhea that does not contain blood.

Some other signs and symptoms include:

• abdominal pain, cramping, and bloating
• weight loss
• fecal incontinence
• dehydration
• strong urges to have a bowel movement

Causes

Microscopic colitis may occur due to:

Autoimmune conditions

In these cases, a person’s immune system attacks its own cells. Autoimmune conditions that may be a cause include:

• celiac disease
• Hashimoto’s disease
• Graves’ disease
• rheumatoid arthritis
• psoriasis

Medications

Medications that may be associated with microscopic colitis include:

• NSAIDs, such as aspirin
• acarbose
• lansoprazole
• sertraline
• ranitidine
• ticlopidine

Infections

Bacterial and viral infections may cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.

Bile acid malabsorption

Bile acid is a fluid that helps carry waste out of the body.

Bile acid malabsorption occurs when the intestines are unable to reabsorb the bile acid. If it reaches the colon, it can lead to diarrhea.

Another type of colitis is ischemic colitis. It occurs due to a reduced blood flow to the colon.

A person may experience abdominal cramping and pain. Within 24 hours, they may notice bloody stools.

Other ischemic colitis symptoms include:

• diarrhea
• nausea
• vomiting
• bloating

An older 2012 article states that there are three main categories of ischemic colitis:

• gangrenous
• stricturing
• transient

Most people have the transient type, which causes milder symptoms, but some have the gangrenous type.

Gangrenous ischemic colitis is particularly severe. People with this condition are likely to require surgical intervention when symptoms appear.

Learn more about ischemic colitis here.

Cause

Ischemic colitis occurs due to a lack of blood flow to the colon. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as heart disease and other conditions that affect blood flow.

Pseudomembranous colitis is usually the result of Clostridium difficile bacteria.

These bacteria are always present in the body, but there are usually enough “good” bacteria to override them.

When these good bacteria die, often after a person has taken antibiotics, the presence of C. difficile increases, causing inflammation in the colon.

Cause

Pseudomembranous colitis can occur due to taking medications that destroy healthy bacteria, such as antibiotics.

Colitis can also come from conditions that are not related to IBD. One of these is cytomegalovirus (CMV), which is a common strain of the herpes virus.

One 2020 article notes that symptoms can be nonspecific and mimic those of IBD. However, a person may experience:

• abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• fever
• rectal bleeding
• weight loss
• feelings of discomfort

Rectal bleeding and diarrhea appear to be the most common symptoms.

If a person with CMV develops symptoms of colitis, they should contact a doctor as soon as possible.

Learn more about CMV here.

Cause

CMV is a strain of the herpes virus that affects approximately 70% of the general population. It does not typically cause any symptoms.

However, symptoms can occur, especially in those with a compromised immune system.

Treatment options will depend on the type and severity of symptoms that a person is experiencing.

There are different types of medications that a doctor may suggest, including:

• aminosalicylates
• corticosteroids
• biological drugs

If medication does not work, the doctor may suggest surgical intervention.

Surgery may also be desirable to people who are benefiting from medication but still finding that the condition affects their quality of life.

There is no way to prevent colitis. However, a person can take steps to help manage the condition and reduce its symptoms.

These steps include:

• not smoking
• eating a healthful diet
• avoiding carbonated drinks
• avoiding caffeine
• avoiding alcohol
• avoiding high fiber foods
• consuming lots of water
• keeping a food diary to help identify triggers

Research indicates that people who smoke are twice as likely to experience IBD than people who do not smoke. This is because of a certain protein in the lungs that smoking can activate.

Learn more about natural remedies for managing ulcerative colitis here.

Colitis is not typically fatal. However, it is a lifelong condition that can have life threatening complications.

For example, some types of colitis — such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis — can increase the risk of developing colon cancer. Microscopic colitis, on the other hand, does not increase the risk of developing colon cancer.

Learn more about the potential complications of ulcerative colitis here.

Additionally, a person’s outlook depends on the type of colitis they have.

For CMV colitis, for example, the outcome is favorable. It can even resolve without antiviral treatment in approximately 25% of people.

It is always best for a person to make a doctor aware if they believe that they have colitis. Even if medical treatment does not seem necessary, the support can be beneficial.

People should contact a doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms:

• abdominal pain or cramping
• bloody diarrhea
• an urgent need to have a bowel movement
• blood in the stool
• rectal bleeding
• weight loss

If a person thinks that they may have acute severe ulcerative colitis, they need medical attention immediately.

When the inner lining of the colon becomes inflamed, it is known as colitis.

This can be the result of several conditions. However, the most common type is ulcerative colitis.

If a person develops colitis, they are likely to experience abdominal discomfort, rectal bleeding, weight loss, bloody diarrhea, and an urgent need to have a bowel movement.

A person should contact a doctor if they suspect that they are experiencing colitis.

Read this article in Spanish.

Colitis: signs, symptoms, treatment – MedCom

Causes of the disease

The appearance of symptoms of colitis can be due to various reasons. The most common provoking factors are:

• Infection. With colitis, the cause of the reproduction of pathogenic flora on the mucous membrane of the organ may be the use of expired food products. An acute reaction of the body to the effects of toxic substances leads to active reproduction of the infection in the intestine. In addition, various infectious agents can enter the body – E. coli, salmonella, dysenteric amoeba and others.
• Violation of the diet. Symptoms can be caused by a lack of fiber and other beneficial substances in the body along with the prevalence of low-quality foods. This is a common cause of colitis.
• Taking certain groups of drugs that lead to disruption of intestinal motility, adversely affect the intestinal microflora and cause colitis.
• Congenital anomalies.
• Presence of concomitant diseases.
• Poisoning. The ingestion of toxic substances leads to acute intoxication of the whole organism and causes colitis.
• Allergic reactions with certain foods that cause unwanted symptoms.
• Mechanical irritations. Frequent use of rectal suppositories or cleansing enemas can lead to mucosal damage and colitis.

Colitis can only be effectively treated when the cause is found.

Symptoms

The intensity and severity of symptoms in colitis depends on the form of the disease. In the acute phase, the symptoms of the disease appear very pronounced and rapidly increase. First of all, colitis is manifested by painful sensations, which can intensify while walking or running, with mechanical action and various therapeutic procedures.

The stool in colitis becomes irregular and has an unstable character: diarrhea is replaced by constipation. Another sign of the disease is the detection of blood, greenish or colorless mucous streaks in the feces. A person feels constant discomfort due to frequent urge to defecate, which remain false. Symptoms can disturb at night and end with incomplete emptying of the intestine and the release of a small amount of feces.

Also, with colitis, bloating and heaviness in the abdomen can be felt, flatulence appears. With timely treatment, colitis can be eliminated in a short time. Otherwise, acute colitis is replaced by a chronic process, and then the duration of treatment can be significant.

Colitis in advanced cases has sluggish manifestations of signs of the disease, which can disturb even during periods of remission. This condition is characterized by the appearance of a skin rash and nausea, which is explained by the toxic damage to the body during colitis.

Differential diagnosis of the disease

Laboratory and instrumental methods of diagnosis are used to accurately diagnose Colitis. At the initial appointment, the attending physician will interview the patient, during which he will identify the intensity of the symptoms characteristic of colitis and the frequency of their manifestation. For a laboratory test, you will need to take tests:

• Blood – to determine the level of hemoglobin, ESR, white blood cell count and platelet concentration.
• Feces – to detect the presence of impurities of blood, leukocytes and erythrocytes.
• Urine – to determine the presence of inflammation.

Analyzes are also examined for the presence of infectious and bacterial agents, as well as their type. During the ultrasound, it is possible to establish changes in the structure of the intestinal walls and the intestinal lumen. The state of other organs of the abdominal cavity is also examined, which makes it possible to identify the presence of diseases associated with colitis. This will help to prescribe the correct complex treatment in the future.

The degree of changes in the organ is determined using the method of contrast irrigoscopy, which involves the introduction of a special substance into the rectum with further radiography. To exclude the growth of malignant tumors, suspicious fragments of the intestine can be sent for a biopsy.

Treatment of colitis

One of the fundamental links in the entire process of treating colitis is diet therapy. This is due to the high degree of irritation of the intestinal mucosa, provoked by colitis. That is why all food consumed should be gentle and easily digestible, which will reduce the load on the organ to a minimum and eliminate symptoms.

In the course of treatment, the patient may be prescribed antibacterial drugs, the main effect of which is to suppress the process of reproduction of infectious agents and completely eliminate them. Colitis provokes severe pain, which can be suppressed by painkillers and antispasmodics.

Another important stage of treatment is the normalization of the stool. Undesirable symptoms are eliminated with a cleansing enema or astringents.

Restoring the stability of intestinal peristalsis is possible only with the normalization of microflora. Enterosorbents, artificial enzymes and probiotics allow you to relieve symptoms. In the presence of concomitant diseases, treatment is selected depending on which organ is affected. More radical measures for colitis are used in case of complications or the inability to eliminate the signs of the disease with classical methods of treatment.

For effective treatment, you should promptly seek help from a medical institution when the first symptoms appear, follow the recommendations of your doctor regarding drug therapy for colitis and the prescribed diet.

What is colitis and how to deal with it?

Contents:

• What causes intestinal colitis
• Disease classification
• Main signs of colitis
• What complications can there be
• Diagnosis of pathology
• How to treat intestinal colitis
• Intestinal colitis: prognosis and prevention

Colitis is commonly referred to as any inflammation in the mucous membrane of the large intestine. There are a lot of reasons for the appearance of inflammation, and the process itself can be acute or take a chronic form.

In this article we will look at how to recognize colitis at the very beginning of the disease; find out; for what reasons it can arise, and who is most susceptible to this disease, how to deal with it most effectively.

Causes of intestinal colitis

The acute form of the disease is caused by pathogenic microorganisms, primarily staphylococci or streptococci. Since the colon mucosa is quite sensitive, inflammation in it can be triggered by factors such as:

1. Food poisoning.
2. Allergic reaction.
3. Effects of certain drugs.
4. Severe infectious disease.

Chronic colitis occurs when acute colitis is left untreated or has not been adequately treated. Usually, the disease becomes chronic with low immunity, as well as when there is inflammation in the internal organs adjacent to the large intestine. There are other causes of chronic colitis:

1. Worm infestation.
2. Diseases of the pelvic organs in women.
3. Uncontrolled use of antibiotics.
4. Alcoholism.
5. Chronic dysbacteriosis.
6. Abuse of spices, spicy food.
7. Congenital defects of the intestine.

Eating a heavy meal or an unbalanced diet can also cause a chronic course.

The disease is common in children. This is explained by the fact that the protection of the mucous membrane has not yet been sufficiently formed, and the intestines cannot resist pathogens. The result is inflammation.

Ischemic colitis is not uncommon in adults, due to problems with blood flow in the mesenteric arteries, the large vessels that attach the intestines to the peritoneum. This phenomenon requires urgent medical attention.

Classification of the disease

Depending on which parts of the intestine affected by inflammation, there are:

• typhlitis;
• transverse;
• sigmoiditis;
• pancolitis;
• proctitis.

The most common form is pancolitis. It affects the entire large intestine.

Due to the occurrence, they are isolated:

• infectious;
• medicinal or toxic;
• ischemic – typical for patients after 55-60 years;
• radiation or radiation;
• ulcerative – the most common type.

The disease can proceed with hemorrhages and erosions, up to the appearance of ulcers and necrosis. This form is called catarrhal and erosive-ulcerative.

Main signs of colitis

Symptoms will vary according to the type and stage of the disease. Acute colitis begins abruptly, the patient complains of:

• diarrhea;
• extensive abdominal pain;
• vomiting;
• flatulence;
• cutting or burning pains in the region of the rectum;
• feverish condition.

Feces contain mucus and blood. Frequent vomiting leads to dehydration, resulting in weakness, pale skin, and low blood pressure. The patient feels intense thirst.

Chronic form of colitis – sluggish with mild manifestations and change of exacerbations with lulls, in which the manifestations practically subside. The fact that inflammation continues in the large intestine is evidenced by such signs as:

• violation of the stool;
• aching pains, mainly on the side and in the lower abdomen;
• is characterized by increased discomfort after eating or with active movements;
• persistent bloating;
• belching;
• bad taste in the mouth;
• heartburn.

A characteristic sign of the pathology is an increase in discomfort and pain during thermal procedures, such as a warm bath, heating pad, mud procedures. More than 80% of patients complain of reduced appetite.

What complications can there be

If the treatment is untimely or incorrect, inflammation will lead to a number of functional disorders:

• the appearance of a scar, which leads to a narrowing of the lumen of the large intestine;
• internal bleeding;
• tissue necrosis, which leads to the development of peritonitis;
• non-traumatic perforation or rupture of the intestine;
• acute obstruction due to adhesion formation.

These are severe and often dangerous conditions. At the first signs of the disease, you should immediately contact a medical institution.

Diagnosis of pathology

Only a gastroenterologist can make a correct diagnosis. For this, the appointment of a scatological study is mandatory. It includes chemical, microscopic and bacteriological examination of feces in the laboratory. A Gregersen reaction test is also carried out. This test looks for blood in the stool.

The doctor also sends for the following instrumental examinations:

1. X-ray of the abdominal cavity.
2. Intestinal endoscopy (colonoscopy).
3. Irrigoscopy – X-ray with the introduction of contrast into the colon. Allows you to accurately detect the inflammatory process and the boundaries of its spread.

Differential diagnosis must exclude oncology and polyposis. A symptom that causes concern is the appearance of blood during bowel movements. This condition requires a comprehensive examination and consultation of specialists.

How to treat intestinal colitis

If the disease is severe, or is at the peak of exacerbation, the patient is hospitalized. The disease is treated on an outpatient basis after the acute manifestations subside, and when no complications are observed.

Therapy is aimed at both relieving inflammation and reducing the sensitivity of the intestinal wall. At the initial stage, it is necessary to eliminate dehydration and normalize the functioning of the intestine, moreover, in all its departments.

If the disease is in the chronic stage, it is very important to follow a special diet.

Diet therapy

Diet must be carefully monitored at any stage of the disease. In the acute phase, it is necessary to unload the intestines as much as possible. All hard-to-digest foods and dishes are excluded:

• meat, including meat broths;
• any sweets and sugar;
• beans, peas and other legumes,
• pickles, marinades;
• fruits, vegetables: raw and cooked;
• any products that increase peristalsis.

Permissible amount of salt per day 8-10 g. Ways of cooking – stewing, boiling. It is advisable to consume all dishes in a pureed form. You can cook for a couple. You need to eat in small portions, but often. Water can be drunk without restrictions.

During exacerbations, the gastrointestinal tract should work in the most gentle mode, so the doctor’s recommendations should be followed as accurately as possible. A strict diet is prescribed for up to five days: during this time, acute symptoms can be removed.

Conservative treatment

If the diet therapy was not effective enough, or concomitant diseases of adjacent organs were revealed during the examination, a course of antibiotics is prescribed, its duration and daily doses of drugs are selected individually. The goal of antibiotic therapy is to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms, or significantly reduce their number. If there are manifestations of dysbacteriosis, the microflora is restored with a complex of probiotics and prebiotics.

If the doctor deems it appropriate, decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs may be additionally prescribed. They will help reduce inflammation, reduce soreness, get rid of diarrhea.

If protozoan cysts or helminth eggs are found in laboratory tests, antiparasitic therapy is given. It is also appropriate to prescribe antiseptics and enterosorbents.

Inflammation in the lower colon responds well to topical treatment. For this, anti-inflammatory microclysters, suppositories are prescribed. They have a positive effect on motor skills, anesthetize.

When constipation occurs, suppositories with laxative properties, enemas are prescribed.

To strengthen local immunity, the doctor will prescribe immunostimulants and vitamin complexes.

Operative method of treatment

In colitis, surgical treatment is indicated in special cases – at risk to life, that is, with developed complications: peritonitis, intestinal bleeding.

Also an indication for surgery may be the lack of improvement with intensive drug treatment, or signs of partial obstruction. Also, surgery may be prescribed if the disease is seriously neglected. Then the only treatment is the removal of the colon (coloproctectomy).

Intestinal colitis: prognosis and prevention

If you consult a doctor in time and then strictly follow his recommendations, the treatment prognosis will be favorable. When the acute symptoms are relieved, the patient’s condition will improve and full working capacity will be restored.

But in order to prevent relapses. The patient must monitor his diet: periods of prolonged fasting, strict diets, snacks on the run, fast food are not allowed. Smoked meats, fatty and spicy foods are excluded from the diet.

It is also necessary to carefully monitor the state of the gastrointestinal tract and treat diseases. In addition, women should regularly visit a gynecologist to detect inflammation in the genitourinary system in the early stages.

Recommended spa treatment in medical institutions specializing in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.