What You Need To Know About Colitis Symptoms
Sure, we have stomach pain and abdominal distress once in a while. That's just a polite term to
mean bouts of diarrhea, gas, bloating or constipation. No matter how you say it, symptoms of
bowel distress are no fun and can put a crimp in your style. How do you know if you're suffering
from colitis? There are several colitis symptoms that should offer some clues. Keep in mind
however, that many of these symptoms mirror symptoms of other types of intestinal distress as
well.
While there are several different types of colitis, the two most common forms are called ischemic
and pseudomembranous colitis. Ischemic colitis is caused by inflammation or injury to some part
of the large intestine, or colon, while pseudomembranous colitis usually develops while people
are taking antibiotics. Inflammation also causes this condition.
The major types of symptoms that most people experience with colitis are abdominal cramps or
pain, diarrhea or constipation. Ischemic colitis usually comes with mild symptoms that most
people would term plain stomach upset, but if left untreated can cause severe damage, so keep
track of pain and its duration. Other symptoms of colitis may include fatigue and a general sense
of malaise, as well as a loss of appetite, rectal bleeding and loss of body fluids and nutrients,
either caused by diarrhea or ulcers within the intestinal lining. Collagenous colitis may result in
watery and diarrhea with no signs of blood.
Most people experience mild colitis symptoms that they mistake as bouts of intestinal upset or
distress triggered by foods, stress and other factors. How do you know when to start thinking of
visiting your doctor? If your bowel habits have suddenly changed or taken a turn for the worse,
red flags should automatically go up. If watching your diet and drinking plenty of fluids does not
cure the problem, then you may want to consider a visit with your doctor. If you have blood in
your stool, schedule a visit with your doctor. If you are suffering from bouts of diarrhea that you
cannot cure with over-the-counter medications such as Imodium and a change of diet within a
few days, also schedule a visit with the doctor. Colitis isn't a fatal disease, though it can be serious. Colitis symptoms can feel alarming, though
there is no real reason to panic. Remember that stress will also affect your digestive system, so
try to remain calm when dealing with bowel issues. You don't have to run to the doctor every
time your body alters its usual patterns, but you should always be aware of what your body is
trying to tell you. Try to prevent intestinal issues by eating correctly, getting plenty of fiber in
your diet and most of all, drink plenty of water daily.
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