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Colitis
The colon, or large intestine, plays a vital role in the digestive system. Acting as a clearing house for waste products before they are expelled from the body and occupying a large portion of the abdominal cavity, if the colon is compromised a person’s sense of well-being will diminish. This is the case with colitis, a group of diseases that involve an irritated colon and corresponding unpleasant symptoms.
What is Colitis?
Colitis is a blanket term used to describe any inflammation of the colon. It is generally characterized by abdominal pain, discomfort, and diarrhea. With different causes leading to different symptoms, proper diagnosis is necessary for effective treatment.
Signs and Symptoms
Individuals experiencing colitis can fall prey to a legion of unwanted digestive symptoms. The list below provides some of the most common, though there are additional side effects such as depression or fatigue that come on as a result of these symptoms.
- Abdominal pain or tenderness
- Increase in bowel movements
- Fever
- Swollen colon
- Rapid weight loss
- Achy joints
- Diarrhea
- Bloating and gas
- Heartburn
Mild colitis can be attended to at home, but if experiencing more serious symptoms like a high fever, persistent diarrhea leading to dehydration, or blood in the stools, it is advised to seek the help of a healthcare professional.
Causes
Colitis, in all its varieties, can be brought on by a number of causes, depending on the type. Some colitis is caused by viruses or bacteria, known as infectious colitis. A loss of blood flow to the colon due to hardening of the arteries is another common reason, which is the case with ischemic colitis.
Another cause is that the body’s immune system begins to attack the colon, leading it to become inflamed, and known as inflammatory bowel disease.
There are also some dietary concerns that may trigger attacks of colitis, depending on the strength of the patient’s digestive system. For instance, those who are lactose intolerant will experience symptoms of colitis if they consume dairy products.
Common Food Triggers
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Spicy Foods
- Dairy Products
- Dried Beans
- Refined Sugar
Chemicals entering the system are another factor in colon inflammation. Finally, there is a rare form known as microscopic colitis, which is caused by excess collagen affecting the colon. This is usually only seen in older women.
Treatments
The treatments for colitis are as varied as its causes. If the colitis is pinpointed to certain food triggers, it follows to limit the intake of that food. Medications are also a normal mode of treatment.
In the case of infectious colitis caused by bacterial infection, antibiotics are used. Finally, for the inflammatory bowel diseases with autoimmune causes, immune-suppressing medications will be used.
At-home care such as rest, a clear liquid diet, and pain medication may be prescribed as well to ease symptoms and bring relief for colitis.
Prevention Measures
- Lower cholesterol levels
- Avoid foods that trigger attacks
- Avoid smoking
- Wash hands thoroughly
Following a healthy lifestyle and following proper sanitation procedures can go a long way in reducing the symptoms of colitis.
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