Colitis in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat is colitis?
Colitis is a condition that describes the overall swelling of the inner lining of the colon. Although ulcerative colitis is often called colitis, these are two different conditions. There are several forms of this digestive condition that can result in inflammation of the large bowel, as well as other symptoms. Some of the most common forms of colitis include:
- Ulcerative colitis (IBD colitis): Results in discomfort and inflammation of the large bowel
- Ischemic (ischaemic) colitis: A result of restricted blood flow
- Microscopic colitis: Causes persistent diarrhea
- Infectious colitis (food poisoning): Caused by ingestion of contaminated food or drinks
The skilled providers at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology are here to treat the various forms of colitis, as well as additional GI conditions. If you are seeking treatment for colitis in Indianapolis, IN, connect with our office to request a consultation today.
What causes colitis?
There are many reasons why the inside layer of the large intestine can become swollen. Some of the most common causes are:
- IBD (inflammatory bowel disease)
- Infection (as a result of parasites invading the digestive system)
- Allergies
- Diminished blood supply to the large bowel (ischemia)
- Some nonprescription and prescription medications (common medications leading to colitis are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and mycophenolate)
- Invasion of the intestinal lining with protein or white blood cells
- Crohn’s disease
Regardless of the cause of your colitis, you can find a gastroenterologist at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology who can help.
What are the symptoms of colitis?
Symptoms of colitis can vary from person to person, depending on the type of colitis they have. Some of the potential colitis symptoms include:
- Blood in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Canker sores
- Loose, watery stool (with or without blood in bowel movement)
- Discomfort in/of the joints or abdomen, which could occur periodically or be constant
- Abdominal tenderness
- Sores on the intestinal tract
- Eye inflammation
- Higher than normal body temperature and/or chills (signs of infection)
- Cramps
- Fatigue
- Out-of-the-ordinary bowel habits (such as the constant need to have a bowel movement)
- Depression
Our team of GI providers is skilled at identifying signs and symptoms of colitis. We are ready to help you understand this condition and your available treatment options.
What treatments are available for colitis?
Our GI providers are dedicated to finding the best treatment for you. Common treatments used for all kinds of colitis often include:
- Pain-relieving medications
- Popular IBD medicines
- Improving vital signs
- Administering fluids to the body (by mouth or intravenously)
- Modifying your diet
Depending on the cause of your colitis, treatment plans can vary.
- Ischemic colitis: The standard treatment for ischemic colitis is to rehydrate your body through intravenous therapy and maintain a clear liquid diet. If the blood supply to the colon does not improve, then surgery may be required to remove the parts that suffered the loss of blood flow.
- Microscopic colitis: In certain instances, the body can heal on its own. It may alternatively be treated with anti-diarrheal medicine and certain corticosteroids, changes to dietary intake, and rarely, surgery.
- IBD: If the cause of the inflammation comes as a result of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, then anti-inflammatory drugs may be used initially, and immunosuppressants could be added later if needed. A surgical procedure could be required based on the severity of the colitis.
- Infections: When bacteria is the cause of infection, then antibiotics can be given. When the infection is viral, keeping the body hydrated and waiting several days are normally the best methods to improve colitis.
When should I find a provider for colitis?
Don't wait to consult with a GI specialist if you have diarrhea that persists for more than a couple of weeks, stools with blood, dehydration, fever, or concerning abdominal pain that worsens over time. If you are seeking a specialist to partner with you to treat or manage colitis, you can trust our team of GI providers at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
Alleviate your symptoms of colitis
At Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology, our providers are dedicated to knowing the latest in cutting-edge treatments for colitis and other digestive disorders. Our team provides patient-focused treatment that will allow you to take back your digestive health. To receive specialized colitis treatment in Indianapolis, IN, please request a consultation with our gastroenterology team.
Colitis FAQs
What sets colitis apart from ulcerative colitis?
Colitis is a term used to describe inflammation of the colon that can arise from various causes, such as infections, insufficient blood supply, reactions to medications, or allergies, and is typically associated with symptoms like abdominal discomfort and diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis is a more specific type of colitis and is classified as an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It involves persistent inflammation and ulcer formation on the colon's inner surface, leading to symptoms that tend to be more intense and debilitating.
What is the recommended diet for someone with colitis?
For those suffering from colitis, following a dietary regimen that reduces intestinal irritation and aids in recovery is essential. Our team might recommend a low-fiber diet to decrease the bulk and frequency of bowel movements. Incorporating an anti-inflammatory diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and plenty of fruits and vegetables can also be beneficial. An elimination diet may also help. This diet removes foods like gluten, dairy, and processed items, then slowly adds them back to find out which ones are causing issues for you. Our goal is to develop a dietary plan that relieves symptoms, maintains nutritional health, and enhances your digestive well-being.
What are the potential risks if colitis goes untreated?
Ignoring colitis can result in serious health issues, including the possibility of a colon perforation, a critical condition where the colon wall develops a hole. This can escalate to toxic megacolon, where the colon quickly inflates and may burst. Additionally, chronic untreated inflammation of the colon can increase the risk of developing colon cancer and may lead to other inflammatory conditions like arthritis or skin problems. Prompt detection and treatment are vital to averting these significant health complications.
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