Colitis in Texas
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Find a ProviderWhat is colitis?
Colitis is a gastrointestinal condition that means the inner lining of the colon is inflamed. While ulcerative colitis is called colitis, it is not actually the same thing.
There are a variety of different types of colitis that can lead to inflammation in an individual's colon as well as create other unique symptoms. Some common types of colitis:
- Ulcerative colitis (IBD colitis): This causes swelling and irritation in the large intestine
- Microscopic colitis: This causes consistent watery diarrhea
- Ischemic (ischaemic) colitis: This is a result of a deficient blood supply
- Infectious colitis (food poisoning): This is caused through the ingestion of viruses and bacteria
The providers at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants are able to treat colitis in Texas, along with other gastrointestinal issues. Contact Texas Digestive Disease Consultants to request a consultation in your area.
What causes colitis?
There are many reasons why the inner lining of your colon could become inflamed. Some of the more common causes are:
- Ischemia (loss of blood supply to the colon)
- Crohn’s disease
- IBD (Irritable bowel disease)
- Allergic reactions
- An infection from parasites invading the body
- Invasion of the colon wall with either collagen or lymphocytic white blood cells
- Certain medications (including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as NSAIDs, and mycophenolate)
No matter what is causing your colitis, you can find a provider at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants who can treat colitis in Texas. Contact a location near you to learn more about the different causes of colitis.
What are the symptoms of colitis?
Symptoms of colitis may include:
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in bowel habits
- Constant urge to have a bowel movement
- Fever and/or chills
- Ulcers on the colon
- Pain in the joints or colon (abdomen)
- A tender abdomen
- Cramping
- Diarrhea
- Blood in the stool
- Eye inflammation
- Canker sores
If you notice any of these symptoms consistently, please call your local Texas Digestive Disease Consultants.
What are the treatment options for colitis?
Some common treatment options for colitis may include:
- Painkillers
- Stabilization of vital signs
- Rehydration of the body
- IBD medications
- Changes to the diet
Depending on the cause of your colitis, your treatment options will vary. Some examples include:
- Infections: If an infection is caused by bacteria, antibiotics can be prescribed. If the infection is viral, however, then keeping the body hydrated and allowing time to pass may be suggested.
- IBD: If the reason for your inflammation is a consequence of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, anti-inflammatory medications may be used; however, medications that suppress your immune system may need to be added. In some cases, surgery may be needed depending on your colitis.
- Ischemic colitis: The most common treatment for ischemic colitis is to hydrate the body with IV fluids and rest the bowel. In cases where blood supply is not restored to the colon, surgery may be needed to remove the parts of the colon that lost blood supply.
- Microscopic colitis: In some cases, the body can heal itself. However, it can also be treated with anti-diarrheal medication, steroids, diet changes, and in some cases, surgery.
Colitis FAQs
What is the difference between colitis and ulcerative colitis?
Colitis refers to inflammation of the colon, which can arise from various causes such as infections, ischemia, certain medications, or allergic reactions, and typically presents with symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis, however, is a specific subset of colitis classified as an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This condition involves persistent inflammation and ulceration of the colon's inner lining, generally resulting in more severe symptoms than those associated with broader definitions of colitis.
What diet should I follow if I have colitis?
For those dealing with colitis, it is essential to follow a diet that reduces intestinal irritation and promotes gut health. Implementing a low-residue diet can help by decreasing fiber intake to reduce bowel movement frequency and volume. Incorporating an anti-inflammatory diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, lean proteins, and a variety of fruits and vegetables can also aid in reducing inflammation. An elimination diet may also be beneficial, where potential trigger foods like gluten, dairy, and processed items are removed and then methodically reintroduced to pinpoint specific allergies or sensitivities. We will collaborate to tailor a diet that alleviates symptoms, ensures nutritional balance, and supports digestive health.
What are the potential complications of untreated colitis?
If colitis is not adequately treated, it can result in serious health issues. One of the more severe complications is colon perforation, a critical condition where a hole develops in the colon wall. Another serious risk is toxic megacolon, where the colon rapidly enlarges and may rupture. Additionally, chronic untreated inflammation from colitis can increase the likelihood of developing colon cancer and may also elevate the risk of other inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and certain skin disorders. Prompt and effective treatment is vital to avoid these severe consequences and maintain overall health.
Treat your colitis in Texas
You should contact a Texas Digestive Disease Consultants location if you have diarrhea that lasts longer than two weeks, blood in your stool, fever, dehydration, or abdominal pain. Always aiming to provide new and cutting-edge treatments for colitis and other GI conditions, Texas Digestive Disease Consultants is an organization that prides itself on providing patient-centric care for colitis in Texas that can help you achieve a better quality of life. Contact your local Texas Digestive Disease Consultants to request a consultation.
Reviews
Dr. Patel is one of the BEST doctors that I’ve ever seen in ANY type of specialty. I have two autoimmune diseases, so I’ve seen a lot of different specialists! Dr. Patel is concerned about her patients’ well-being as a whole and not just for the problems that she’s treating. She went above and beyond to consult with my rheumatologist about the dosing schedule of Remicade so that both the ulcerative colitis that she treats and the Ankylosing Spondylitis that he treats could be most effective. We are fortunate to have Dr. Patel in the Texoma area!
Dr. Metha is Absolutely Great. I've been under his care for 15 years. He has pulled me out of some dark places with my ulcerative Colitis. Started out on Liaida, condition worsened , went to Remicade infusions, antibodies built up after 10 years on that treatment. Backslid BIG TIME. Didn't work for a month. Couldn't leave the house. Currently on Entivyo infusions. Been a year now. Things are Great. Colonoscopy was good. I'll be with him until he retires. Wish nothing but the Best for him and his family.
Dr. Nagaraj has been my gastroenterologist since I moved to Texas over 10 years ago and she has taken my ulcerative colitis from constant flare up to remission. She is a awesome gastroenterologist as well as the staff in the office, always very professional and caring.
Dr Ravi Mani keeps up-to-date on Crohns/Ulcerative Colitis. He is ACES with his personal communication with a patient. Been with him appx 14 years. Completely satisfied with office staff and infusion nurse.
I was in a bad shape with my Ulcerative Colitis flare up and had a lot of questions in mind before I met Dr. Patel. During the consultation, Dr. Patel takes time to explain me about everything related UC and provided an earliest schedule for Colonoscopy procedure. It was very seamless. Feeling much much better after started Dr. Patel's medication. I definitely recommend Dr. Patel. He is one of the best I have ever met. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr Patel for everything.
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