Colitis symptoms appear whenever the innermost lining of the colon, particularly the portions found at the very last part of the large intestines, become irritated due to inflammation. Colitis can be due to a handful of different factors. We will discuss these reasons here to help you identify if you indeed are suffering from this uncomfortable and sometimes painful condition.
Infection due to the ingestion of disease-causing bacteria is one of the most common causes of colitis. This condition is oftentimes referred to as food poisoning. Taking in food infected with Shigella, E. Coli or Salmonella results in the colon becoming irritated.
When this happens, the very first symptom that typically presents would be stomach aches. The abdomen may also become distended after which bloating will ensue. Increased flatulence may also be possible. The intensity of the stomach ache will vary though oftentimes will come in waves.
Colitis will almost always present diarrhea as well. This happens because the body is aware that it has been attacked by harmful microorganisms, and attempts to flush the latter by means of the feces. Presence of the above mentioned bacteria causes bleeding of the colon as well which is why blood in the stool can often be found.
In severe cases of colitis, nausea or vomiting may also happen. When both the loose bowel movements and the nausea are left uncared for, the patient suffering from these symptoms could end up dangerously dehydrated. This is why doctors always advocate the intake of rehydration solutions regardless of whether the symptoms are caused by infectious colitis or not.
Increased levels of body temperature coupled with chills may also become possible. And oftentimes too, the condition called Tenesmus, or the persistent need to defecate, may also happen. And if the patient has hemorrhoids, these tissue protrusions found in the rectum may become irritated and may therefore itch, sometimes even bleed as well.
There is an increased chance of the onset of severe pain as well, particularly one that emanates from the lower part of the abdomen through to the rectum. This is especially true if ischemic colitis is the condition afflicting the person. In this case, the colon is obstructed and thus is lacking significant blood supply, either because the large intestine has twisted on itself, or hernia is present wherein a portion of the colon is abnormally lodged in the abdominal wall.
Colitis not only causes significant discomfort, it can also become life-threatening. This is why it would be prudent to immediately consult with a medical professional whenever any of the symptoms detailed above manifest. Specific tests will be done to properly identify what the type of colitis is and what is causing it.
Pay particular heed whenever said conditions exhibit in children as well. Children have less developed immune systems, which is why their bodies are not as capable of fighting diseases as adults. And follow to the letter the recommended treatment and rehydration procedures so that the colitis symptoms do not develop into more severe medical conditions.
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