Overview
Ischemic colitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and injury to the large intestine due to inadequate blood supply. It occurs when blood flow to part of the colon is temporarily reduced, leading to tissue damage. Although any part of the colon can be affected, ischemic colitis most commonly causes pain on the left side of the belly area.
Types of Ischemic colitis
- Segmental Ischemic Colitis: Affects specific segments of the colon.
- Total Colonic Ischemia: Involves the entire colon.
Causes of Ischemic colitis
Several factors increase the risk of ischemic colitis:
- Atherosclerosis: Buildup of fatty deposits in the artery walls.
- Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Associated with dehydration, heart failure, surgery, trauma, or shock.
- Bowel Obstruction: Caused by hernia, scar tissue, or tumors.
- Surgery Involving Blood Vessels or Digestive/Gynecological Systems
- Other Blood Disorders: Vasculitis, lupus, sickle cell anemia.
- Drug Use: Cocaine, methamphetamine.
- Chronic Constipation
- Colon Cancer (rare)
Risk Factors of Ischemic colitis
- Age: Most common in adults over 60.
- Sex: More common in women.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: High blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, kidney disease.
- Blood Clotting Irregularities
- Inflammation of Blood Vessels (Vasculitis)
Symptoms of Ischemic colitis
1. Abdominal Pain: The pain is often localized to the left lower abdomen. Ranges from mild discomfort to severe pain.
2. Blood in Stool (Hematochezia): Bright red or maroon blood in the stool. Blood may be mixed with stool or appear separately.
3. Urgency to move bowels: Feeling an urgent need to have a bowel movement. May occur more frequently than usual.
4. Diarrhea: Loose, watery stools. Varies; can be persistent or intermittent.
5. Nausea or vomiting: Nausea may accompany abdominal pain or blood in the stool.
Preventions of Ischemic colitis
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Avoid drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine.
- Exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet.
- Timely treatment for heart conditions that can cause blood clots.
Diagnosis of Ischemic colitis
- Imaging (ultrasound, CT scan, magnetic resonance angiography)
- Colonoscopy
- Blood tests (CBC)
- Stool tests
Treatment for Ischemic colitis
- Depends on severity:
- Mild cases resolve in 2-3 days.
- Antibiotics (e.g., Cefuroxime) to prevent infections.
- Surgery for severe cases (remove dead tissue, correct blockage).
- Intravenous therapy to prevent dehydration.
- Dietary adjustments (smaller portions, fiber-rich foods, probiotics).
When to seek medical attention ?
- Seek immediate medical care for sudden, severe abdominal pain.
- Contact a healthcare provider if you experience worrisome symptoms (e.g., bloody diarrhea).