Colitis in Arizona
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Find a ProviderWhat is colitis?
Colitis is a disorder characterized by swelling along the tissue lining the lower large intestine. While ulcerative colitis is often referred to generally as "colitis," these are two different conditions.
There are a few different forms of this GI condition that might lead to swelling of the colon, in addition to other unique issues. Some of the more frequently reported forms include:
- Infectious colitis (food poisoning): Caused by consumption of bacteria and viruses
- Microscopic colitis: Results in persistent watery stool
- Ischemic (ischaemic) colitis: A consequence of insufficient blood supply
- Ulcerative colitis (IBD colitis): Results in discomfort and swelling of the large intestine
The board-certified physicians at Arizona Digestive Health are ready to address different types of colitis and other GI problems. To obtain assistance for colitis in Phoenix, AZ or to explore available care choices, we encourage you to request an appointment at our office now.
What causes colitis?
There are numerous possible causes of colon inflammation. Some of the most common causes include:
- Allergies
- Loss of blood supply to the intestine (ischemia)
- Invasion of the colon lining with collagen or lymphocytes
- Crohn's disease
- Certain drugstore and prescription drugs — frequent medicines causing colitis include NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and mycophenolate
- Infection (due to parasites in the digestive system)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
No matter the reason for your colitis, we invite you to consult with a specialist at Arizona Digestive Health to discuss diagnosis and treatment.
What are the symptoms of colitis?
Colitis can be the cause behind many symptoms, including:
- Red, inflamed eyes
- Abdominal tenderness
- Blood in the feces
- Pain in/of the joints or abdomen (colon) that can happen in waves or be persistent
- Feeling depressed
- Fatigue
- Changes in bathroom habits (such as the constant need to have a bowel movement)
- Canker sores
- Ulcers on the colon
- Loose, watery stool (with or without the presence of blood in bowel movement)
- Cramps
- Rise in body temperature and/or chills (indicators of infection)
- Unexpected weight loss
When you are having any number of these symptoms regularly, please contact our team of Phoenix, AZ digestive health providers for help restoring your health.
What are the treatment options for colitis?
There are some treatments that are commonly used for all varieties of colitis, including:
- Adjusting your diet
- Preserving the body's vital functions
- Rehydrating (orally or through an IV)
- Popular inflammatory bowel disease medications
- Pain-relieving medications
Options for medical intervention will vary according to the type of colitis you have.
- Ischemic colitis: The standard intervention for ischemic colitis is to rehydrate your body using IV therapy and let the intestines heal. If blood circulation is not restored to the colon, then a surgical procedure could be performed to extract those portions of the large bowel that lost blood circulation.
- Microscopic colitis: In certain cases, an individual's body can heal by itself. It may also be treated with anti-diarrheal drugs as well as certain steroid drugs, changes to dietary intake, and less often, surgical procedures.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: If the cause of the inflammation comes in result of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, then NSAID medicines can be used initially and medications that suppress the immune system can be added if needed. Surgery could be required depending on the severity of the colitis.
- Infections: If bacteria is the cause of infection, then antibiotics can be the right course of treatment. When the problem is viral, then staying hydrated and letting time pass are the ideal methods to resolve your colitis.
Colitis FAQs
How does colitis differ from ulcerative colitis?
Colitis and ulcerative colitis, although related, have distinct differences in their causes and health effects. Colitis is a broad term that refers to the inflammation of the colon, which can result from various factors such as infections, reduced blood flow, medications, or allergic reactions, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis, however, is a specific type of colitis categorized as an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is marked by chronic inflammation and ulcer formation on the inner lining of the colon and rectum, often resulting in more severe symptoms.
What is the best diet for managing colitis?
When managing colitis, following a diet that reduces intestinal discomfort and encourages healing is essential. A low-residue diet, which limits fiber intake to decrease bowel movement volume and frequency, can be helpful. Furthermore, an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lean proteins, and plentiful fruits and vegetables, can aid in reducing inflammation. Finally, an elimination diet, where common irritants like gluten, dairy, and processed foods are removed and gradually reintroduced, can identify specific food sensitivities. Together, we will work to find a diet that alleviates symptoms, maintains nutritional balance, and supports overall digestive health.
What happens if colitis goes untreated?
If colitis is left untreated, severe complications can develop, including the risk of colon perforation, a life-threatening condition where a hole forms in the colon wall. Patients may also face toxic megacolon, marked by rapid swelling and the potential rupture of the colon. Moreover, untreated colitis increases the risk of colon cancer due to chronic inflammation and can elevate the likelihood of other inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis or skin disorders. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent these serious health outcomes.
When should I talk to a GI specialist for colitis?
If you're noticing blood in your stool, experiencing fever or dehydration, suffering from abdominal discomfort that gets worse over time, or having loose, watery stools that persist for more than two weeks, then you should not hesitate to visit a physician. If you are looking for a gastroenterologist to partner with you to improve or address colitis, then you can see an experienced GI provider at Arizona Digestive Health. Staying at the cutting edge of the latest and emerging therapies for colitis and other different digestive conditions, our doctors render thorough care that allows individuals to attain improved well-being. To receive individualized colitis treatment in Phoenix, AZ, we invite you to arrange an appointment with one of our gastroenterology locations.
Reviews
Dr Trivedi put my ulcerative colitis in a complete remission!! I’m also a physician and recommend anyone with IBD see him
Dr Mills has been my gastroenterologist for over 20 years! He is not just an awesome physician, he is a stellar human. He gives me such confidence that I can get through flares, etc (colitis and more). You’d need to look far and wide to find a better health care provider. I’m soooo grateful!
I was referred to Dr. Umar for a 2nd opinion, as I wanted another perspective regarding my ulcerative colitis treatment. Dr. Umar quickly got my UC under control and ensured that his staff touched bases with me regularly to keep my UC in remission. His instructions are always clear, and the team around him that assists his patients are top notch. I even referred my wife to him and she is also very pleased!
I really like Dr. Hutchinson. My issue is trying to get an appointment to see him right away if you need to is impossible. I recently had a bout of infectious colitis. My primary had run out of treatment options and wanted me to see Dr. H right away. I finally got a telehealth visit with him after my primary contacted him directly. I find some of the office staff to be very unhelpful. After a few tests and medication I was on my way to resolving the issue. I was sick for six weeks!
Dr Patel is wonderful! Helped me control my colitis that the hospital did not do. Was willing to provide service to me in Ca till I find a new GI Dr. I appreciate his service!
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