Colitis in Illinois
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Find a ProviderWhat is colitis?
Colitis is described as an inflammation of the lining inside the colon. While ulcerative colitis is oftentimes called colitis, it is important to understand that they aren’t the same. There are varying types of colitis that cause inflammation. While inflammation is the main symptom, other symptoms are common. These can include:
- Ulcerative colitis (IBD colitis) - causes irritation and swelling of the large intestine
- Microscopic colitis - causes persistent watery diarrhea
- Ischemic (ischaemic) colitis - a result of inadequate blood supply
- Infectious colitis (food poisoning) - a result of ingestion of viruses and bacteria
Our board-certified providers at GI Alliance of Illinois have the expertise and knowledge needed to treat the various forms of colitis. Request an appointment in our Chicago, IL, or Bloomington, IL, office to learn more about the specific treatment options available to you.
What causes colitis?
There are varying reasons why the inner lining of the colon can become inflamed. However, there are a few common causes. These include:
- Loss of blood supply to the colon (ischemia)
- Crohn’s disease
- Irritable bowel disease (IBD)
- Allergic reactions
- Infection - from parasites invading the body
- Invasion of the colon wall with collagen or lymphocytic white blood cells
- Over-the-counter and prescription medications (common medications causing colitis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and mycophenolate
Regardless of the specific cause of your colitis, our specialists at GI Alliance of Illinois are happy to help. Request a consultation in our Chicago, IL, or Bloomington, IL, location for more information.
What are the symptoms of colitis?
Some symptoms of colitis can include:
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Rapid weight loss
- Changes in bowel habits (including constant urge to have a bowel movement)
- Fever and/or chills (signs of infection)
- Ulcers on the colon
- Pain in/of the joints, or colon (abdomen) which can come in waves or be constant
- Tenderness in the abdomen
- Cramping
- Diarrhea (with or without blood in the stool)
- Eye inflammation
- Canker sores
- Blood in the stool
If you've experienced any of the symptoms frequently, contact our team at GI Alliance of Illinois. We will help you get the expert care you need at our Illinois location.
What are the treatment options for colitis?
The common treatments that are provided across all the different types of colitis include:
- Painkillers
- Stabilization of vital signs
- Rehydration of the body - orally or intravenously
- Common IBD medications
- Adjustment of diet
Treatment options may vary depending on the cause of the colitis.
- Infections - If the infection is caused by bacteria, antibiotics can be prescribed. If the infection is viral then keeping the body hydrated and allowing time to pass are the best ways to treat the colitis.
- IBD - If the cause of the inflammation comes in consequence of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, anti-inflammatory medications may be used initially and immune system suppressing medications can be added if necessary. Surgery may be necessary depending on the severity of the colitis.
- Ischemic colitis- The main treatment for Ischemic colitis is to hydrate the body with intravenous fluids and to rest the bowel. If blood supply is not restored to the colon then surgery might be necessary to remove those parts of the colon that lost blood supply.
- Microscopic colitis- In some cases, the body can heal itself. It can also be treated with anti-diarrheal medication and some steroids, adjustment of diet, and rarely, surgery.
When should I see a doctor about colitis?
It is recommended that you see a GI doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts for more than two weeks. If you have blood in your stool, a fever, or any abdominal pain that is getting worse, seek treatment from our GI providers at GI Alliance of Illinois. Our GI doctors are board-certified and ready to help you with whatever GI issue you're facing. Request an appointment in our Chicago, IL, or Bloomington, IL, office today to learn more.
Expert GI treatment for your condition
Our team at GI Alliance in Illinois is at the forefront of treatments available for colitis. When you request a consultation with our team, we will do our best to help you achieve a better quality of life. Please schedule an appointment to learn more about colitis and the treatments we provide in our Illinois office.
Colitis FAQs
How do colitis and ulcerative colitis differ?
Colitis refers to the general inflammation of the colon, which can be triggered by various factors such as infections, ischemia, certain drugs, or allergies, typically presenting with abdominal discomfort and diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis is a more specific and severe form that is classified as an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This condition is marked by persistent inflammation and ulceration within the colon and rectum's inner lining, leading to more intense and frequent symptoms.
What nutritional approach is best for managing colitis?
When managing colitis, it's important to follow a diet that minimizes discomfort and promotes healing. Starting with a low-residue diet can help reduce the frequency and volume of bowel movements. Incorporating an anti-inflammatory diet with foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables can also aid in reducing inflammation. You may also benefit from an elimination diet, which involves removing potential triggers like gluten, dairy, and processed foods from your diet to identify food sensitivities, adjusting based on how your body responds.
What are the potential risks of untreated colitis?
Ignoring colitis can lead to significant health complications. Untreated colitis can cause perforation (or puncturing) of the colon wall, posing severe risks. There's also the risk of developing toxic megacolon, which involves sudden swelling and a potential rupture of the colon. Continuous inflammation without treatment increases the risk of developing colon cancer and may lead to other inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis or skin disorders. Managing colitis early and effectively is crucial to prevent these severe consequences.
Reviews
For more than 30 years, Dr. Vainder has managed my ulcerative colitis with his sage judgment and careful attention. Thank you!!!
I really like Dr Godambe. I feel she is one of the few doctors who respects the patient's decisions about their healthcare. I have ulcerative colitis, and although she offers suggestions about new medications to make my life and colitis better, she doesn't force her opinion or try to intimidate me (as some GI dr's I've had in the past try to do). Excellent bedside manner; very caring. She did my last colonoscopy and it went very smoothly. Highly recommend her.
20 plus years same Doc. Straight forward, explains technical jargon in a easily understandable way. Ileostomy/ulcerative colitis patient
Dr.Ballard really took the time to explain to me about the severity of my ulcerative colitis as well as taking the time out to suggest the best treatment options..I highly recommend him for gastrointestinal services.
Dr.Ballard really took the time to explain to me about the severity of my ulcerative colitis, as well as taking the time out to suggest the best treatment options..I highly recommend him for gastrointestinal care.
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