Colitis in Florida
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Find a ProviderWhat is colitis?
Colitis is a digestive disease that involves inflammation in the tissue lining the inside of the large intestine. Although ulcerative colitis is often shortened to "colitis," they are actually two different conditions. There are a few different forms of this GI condition that might result in inflammation of the large bowel, along with other connected problems. A number of frequent forms of colitis are:
- Infectious colitis (food poisoning): Caused by ingestion of viruses and bacteria
- Ischemic (ischaemic) colitis: An outcome of inadequate blood supply
- IBD colitis (ulcerative colitis): Leads to irritation and swelling of the large bowel
- Microscopic colitis: Results in persistent loose stool
The experienced doctors at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida are ready to treat different types of colitis as well as other GI problems. If you need to get help for colitis in Florida or to discuss your treatment choices, please set up a consultation at our practice today.
What causes colitis?
There are several potential conditions that could contribute to inflammation of the inside wall of the colon. Some of the most frequent reasons include:
- Particular OTC and prescription drugs - typical medicines causing colitis include NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and mycophenolate
- Crohn's disease
- Allergies
- Infection (as a result of parasites invading the body)
- Loss of blood flow to the colon (ischemia)
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Attack of the intestinal wall by proteins or lymphocytes
The board-certified providers at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida will work with you to uncover the reason for your colitis. Contact one of our local offices to arrange a consultation with a gastroenterologist who understands how to treat your illness.
What are the symptoms of colitis?
Symptoms that may signal the development of colitis include:
- Ulcers on the large intestine
- Tenderness in the abdomen
- Blood in bowel movements
- Feeling depressed
- Tiredness
- Unexpected weight loss
- Red, inflamed eyes
- Higher than normal body temperature and/or chills (signs of infection)
- Loose, watery stool (with or without blood in the stool)
- Discomfort in/of the joints or abdomen (colon), which can happen in cycles or be constant
- Cramping
- Sores in the lining of the mouth
- More frequent bowel habits (including the constant urge to have a bowel movement)
If you are showing any number of the listed problems regularly, we invite you to reach out to us and receive care from our group of Florida GI providers.
What are some treatments for colitis?
Treatments for all types of colitis often involve:
- Painkillers
- Improving vital signs
- Modifications to your diet
- Administering fluids to the body (by mouth or using an IV)
- Popular inflammatory bowel disease medications
Your specific therapy options could differ according to the cause of your colitis.
- Infections: If the infection is caused by bacteria, then antibiotics may be the best course of treatment. When the infection is viral, keeping the body hydrated and letting time pass are the ideal ways to alleviate your colitis.
- Ischemic colitis: The primary therapy for ischemic colitis is to rehydrate the body by way of IV solutions and consume a clear liquid diet. If blood flow is not improved to the colon, then surgery might be performed to extract those portions of the large intestine that suffered the loss of blood circulation.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: If the source of the inflammation comes as a result of ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, then anti-inflammatory medications might be used initially and medications that suppress the immune system might be required if necessary. Surgery may be necessary according to the level of the colitis.
- Microscopic colitis: In certain instances, an individual's body can heal itself. It might alternatively be treated using anti-diarrheal medication and certain steroid drugs, adjustment of diet, and rarely, surgery.
When should I see a doctor about colitis?
You should talk to a GI specialist if you are experiencing ongoing diarrhea (lasting for more than two weeks), blood in your bowel movements, dehydration or fever, or pain in the abdomen that gets worse over time. When you are searching for a doctor to partner with you to treat or address colitis, turn to the skilled GI providers at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida.
Get the help you need for colitis
Remaining at the cutting edge of research into treatments for colitis and other GI conditions, the physicians at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida deliver comprehensive therapies, helping patients attain an improved quality of life. To receive individualized colitis care in Florida, we invite you to request an appointment with our GI providers.
Colitis FAQs
What sets colitis apart from ulcerative colitis?
Colitis and ulcerative colitis share similarities but have distinct differences in their impact on health. Colitis refers to a broad inflammation of the colon, triggered by various factors like infections, reduced blood flow, medications, or allergies. It manifests with symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. On the other hand, ulcerative colitis falls within the spectrum of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It involves chronic inflammation and ulcer formation along the colon and rectum lining, often resulting in more severe symptoms.
How should I adjust my diet while managing colitis?
Managing colitis requires adopting a diet that minimizes intestinal distress and supports healing. A low-residue diet, which limits fiber intake to reduce bowel movement volume and frequency, can be beneficial. Embracing an anti-inflammatory diet abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, lean proteins, and a variety of fruits and vegetables helps to alleviate inflammation. Additionally, an elimination diet systematically removes common irritants like gluten, dairy, and processed foods, then gradually reintroduces them to identify specific triggers. Together, we'll tailor a diet plan to alleviate symptoms, maintain nutrition, and support digestive health.
What risks come with untreated colitis?
Neglecting colitis treatment can lead to severe complications, such as colon perforation, a life-threatening condition where a hole forms in the colon wall. There's also the danger of toxic megacolon, characterized by rapid colon swelling and potential rupture. Moreover, untreated colitis raises the risk of colon cancer due to persistent inflammation and increases susceptibility to other inflammatory conditions like arthritis or skin disorders. Early diagnosis and management are essential to avoid these serious health consequences.
Reviews
My first visit with Dr Medraro was so welcoming and pleasant. Regardless of my problem he made me laugh. Staff was excellent and professional. Highly recommended.
Dr. Rosenfield and his caring staff gave me the confidence to follow thru with a procedure that I may otherwise not have done!! Thank You, All!!!
(Translated by Google) Excellent (Original) Excelent
I’ve known Dr Steinberg for 30 years. He’s just the best! Very easy to talk with and a great doctor. His staff is fantastic and make you feel at ease. I Wouldn’t consider going to anyone else and you shouldn’t either!
Dr. Hurwitz is very understanding and helpful when it comes to my ulcerative colitis. He answers all my questions. I never wait more than 20 minutes to be seen.
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