Understanding Colitis
Colitis is a condition that is marked by inflammation of the intestine. It is also more commonly
known as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and some experts call it Ulcerative Colitis, when sores are
present on the interior of the intestinal lining. The condition usually affects the left side of the
large intestine, or colon, though it can affect other areas as well. Two of the most common
inflammation conditions that affect the colon are Crohn's disease and Ulcerative Colitis.
Colitis causes unpleasant, yet nonlife threatening conditions such as frequent diarrhea, constipation,
abdominal cramps, bloating and swelling, but the causes of the condition are unknown. For
some, irritable bowel syndrome or colitis conditions run in families, but doctors believe the
condition develops when the immune system causes an overreaction to bacteria that is normally
present in the large intestine.
Common symptoms of ulcerative colitis are bloody diarrhea or a thick coating of mucous in the
stools. Rectal bleeding, stomach pain, as well as loss of appetite or fever, may also go with this
condition, and it is important not to wait too long before seeing a doctor if symptoms don't
improve in a few days. Conditions may worsen to the point where sores riddle the interior walls
of the colon, which may lead to complications such as inflammations and ulcers that stretch the
colon walls. In such a case, immediate care is necessary.
Most people do not even think of their intestines unless they happen to get something bad to eat
and are stricken with a bad case of diarrhea once in a while. But someone living with colitis or
any other lower digestive tract condition must deal with such symptoms daily. Depending on how
severe the condition presents itself in any given individual, treatments and medications vary. Irritable bowel conditions such as colitis and Crohn's disease are easy to diagnose. Physical
exams coupled with blood work will usually provide a diagnosis, though at times, a doctor may
need to perform endoscopy or a barium enema x-ray to be sure. Usually, the doctor will order a
stool sample for blood and signs of bacterial infection. Treatments consist of home-type cures, and on occasion, medications intended to reduce
inflammation. Patients should watch their diet and drink plenty of fluids. For severe cases,
doctors may prescribe medications that will work to suppress the immune system, though this is
only done when nothing else helps. Living with colitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease or any other irritable bowel condition is
frustrating for those who suffer from its symptoms. But taking care of your body and keeping a
healthy lifestyle may help to prevent outbreaks of the condition that lay many people low for days
at a time. Stress is biggest trigger for flare-ups of the condition, and even having the condition
causes intense stress to sufferers. It is important to find ways to relax, whether that includes
watching movies, going for walks, or exercising. Each person has their own favorite stress relief
method, and should practiced it daily. Your body, and your peace of mind, will benefit.
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