Colitis

Colitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the inner lining of the colon. It’s important to note that while some people may refer to ulcerative colitis as simply “colitis,” the two conditions are distinct.

There are various types of colitis, each with its own set of symptoms and causes of inflammation in the colon. Here are a few common types:

– Ulcerative colitis (a form of inflammatory bowel disease) – This type leads to irritation and swelling of the large intestine.
– Microscopic colitis – It causes chronic watery diarrhea.
– Ischemic (ischaemic) colitis – This occurs when there is insufficient blood supply to the colon.
– Infectious colitis (food poisoning) – This results from the ingestion of bacteria or viruses.

At The Gut Clinic UK, our experts are well-prepared to treat all forms of colitis and other gastrointestinal conditions. We encourage you to get in touch with your local specialist at The Gut Clinic UK to explore treatment options tailored to your specific condition.

Colitis can be caused by various factors that lead to inflammation of the colon’s inner lining. Here are some common causes:

– Ischemia: Loss of blood supply to the colon.
– Crohn’s disease: A chronic inflammatory condition that can affect any part of the digestive tract, including the colon.
– Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): A group of disorders, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, characterised by chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
– Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience colitis as a result of allergic responses to certain foods, medications, or other substances.
– Infections: Parasites invading the body can cause colitis.
– Collagen or lymphocytic invasion: The colon wall may be infiltrated by collagen or lymphocytic white blood cells, triggering inflammation.
– Medications: Certain over-the-counter and prescription drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and mycophenolate, have been associated with colitis.

No matter the underlying cause of your colitis, you can find assistance from specialists at The Gut Clinic UK who are experienced in treating this condition. Reach out to your local specialist to learn more about the specific causes of colitis and available treatment options.

Symptoms of possible colitis include:

– Fatigue
– Depression
– Rapid weight loss
– Changes in bowel habits (including constant urge to have a bowel movement)
– Fever and/or chills (signs of infection)
– Ulcers on the colon
– Pain in/of the joints, or colon (abdomen) which can come in waves or be constant
– Tenderness in the abdomen
– Cramping
– Diarrhea (with or without blood in the stool)
– Eye inflammation
– Canker sores
– Blood in the stool

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms consistently, please call any of our specialists in your local area.

– Common treatments across all types of colitis can include:
– Painkillers
– Stabilisation of vital signs
– Rehydration of the body – orally or intravenously
– Common IBD medications
– Adjustment of diet
– Depending on the cause of the colitis, treatment options may vary.
– Infections – If the infection is caused by bacteria then antibiotics can be prescribed. If the infection is viral then keeping the body hydrated and allowing time to pass are the best ways to treat the colitis.
– IBD – If the cause of the inflammation comes in consequence of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis then anti-inflammatory medications may be used initially and medications that suppress the immune system can be added if necessary. Surgery may be necessary depending on the severity of the colitis.
Ischemic colitis- The main treatment for Ischemic colitis is to hydrate the body with intravenous fluids and to rest the bowel. If blood supply is not restored to the colon then surgery might be necessary to remove those parts of the colon that lost blood supply.
– Microscopic colitis- In some cases, the body can heal itself. It can also be treated with anti-diarrheal medication and some steroids, adjustment of diet, and rarely, surgery.

If you experience persistent diarrhea for more than two weeks, notice blood in your stool, have a fever or dehydration, or if you have abnormal abdominal pain that worsens over time, it is important to seek medical attention from a doctor. If you are specifically seeking a specialist to treat or manage colitis, The Gut Clinic UK offers a team of dedicated professionals who can assist you. At The Gut Clinic UK, our specialists are at the forefront of innovative treatments for colitis and other conditions. We prioritise patient-centered care to improve the quality of life for individuals. To learn more about colitis and available treatments, please contact any of our local specialists.