Colitis: what kind of disease it is, types, symptoms and diagnosis

Colitis is inflammation of the mucous membrane of the colon. The term combines several conditions that differ in cause, so clarifying the form is part of the diagnosis. According to recommendations, the diagnosis is built on complaints, examination and instrumental methods, not on a single symptom.

What colitis is and what happens in the intestine

In colitis, the inner lining of the colon becomes inflamed. The process may affect all sections (pancolitis) or individual areas: the cecum (typhlitis), transverse colon (transversitis), sigmoid colon (sigmoiditis), rectum (proctitis). The course can be acute and chronic. Manifestations of chronic colitis are noted in every second patient with problems of the digestive organs.

Types of colitis: infectious, ulcerative, ischemic and others

By cause, several forms are distinguished. Infectious colitis is caused by pathogenic, opportunistic or ordinary microflora. Ulcerative colitis is a disease with unclear etiology, in which heredity, autoimmune mechanisms and infection are discussed. Ischemic colitis occurs when the blood supply to the colon is impaired. Toxic, or drug-induced (for example, with NSAID use), and radiation colitis are distinguished separately.

Causes of inflammation of the colon

The cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown; immune system disorders are discussed, but a causal relationship has not been proven. Stress and some foods can trigger symptoms but do not cause the disease. Colitis is predisposed by a decrease in the body's overall resistance, a lack of dietary fiber and inflammatory processes in the anorectal area. Risk factors for ulcerative colitis are a family history and other autoimmune diseases.

Main symptoms of colitis

Typical are abdominal pain and cramps, diarrhea (sometimes with blood, mucus or pus), frequent and imperative urges, a feeling of incomplete emptying (tenesmus), bloating. Fatigue, decreased appetite and weight loss are possible. During an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, there may be joint pain, fever, skin changes, red eyes, mouth ulcers.

• Diarrhea, possibly with blood, mucus or pus
• Abdominal pain, more often in the left lower part
• Frequent or nighttime urges to defecate
• Bloating and increased gas formation
• Fatigue and effortless weight loss

How colitis is diagnosed

The diagnosis is based on complaints, history, abdominal palpation, digital examination and anoscopy. Endoscopy, rectosigmoidoscopy and contrast irrigoscopy are used. In ulcerative colitis, colonoscopy with biopsy is most often performed. Laboratory tests include a complete blood count, C-reactive protein, ESR, calprotectin or lactoferrin in stool; stool is tested for helminth eggs, microscopy and culture. If ischemic colitis is suspected — a coagulogram, blood lipids and angiography.

When to see a doctor

You should see a doctor when symptoms of colitis appear. An urgent consultation is required for very severe diarrhea or diarrhea with blood, high fever, rapid heartbeat, inability to pass gas or empty the bowel.

Inflammation of the colon by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103/112 — for severe abdominal pain, continuous bleeding from the anus, a large amount of blood or large clots in the stool, vomiting blood or coffee-ground contents.

The material is for reference: it describes the condition and diagnostic methods but does not replace consultation with a doctor.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer