What Is Colitis?

Colitis refers to inflammation of the colon. The causes and severity of colitis vary widely—from acute infections to chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. At our center, we diagnose and manage several types of colitis, tailoring treatment to the underlying cause.

Types of Colitis

• Ulcerative colitis: A chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by continuous inflammation and ulceration of the colon lining, starting in the rectum and extending proximally. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, urgency, abdominal cramps, and fatigue.
• Microscopic colitis: Includes collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis. These conditions cause chronic watery diarrhea without visible inflammation on colonoscopy; diagnosis is made via biopsies.
• Ischemic colitis: Reduced blood flow to the colon causes sudden abdominal pain and bloody stools, often in older adults or those with vascular disease.
• Infectious colitis: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can inflame the colon and cause diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Diagnosis

Evaluation begins with a careful history and physical exam. Diagnostic tests may include stool studies, blood tests, colonoscopy with biopsies, and imaging. For ulcerative colitis and microscopic colitis, colonoscopy and histology confirm the diagnosis.

Management

• Ulcerative colitis: Treatment aims to induce and maintain remission. Options include aminosalicylates (5-ASA), corticosteroids for flares, immunomodulators, and biologic therapies. Surgery (colectomy) may be needed for severe disease or complications.
• Microscopic colitis: Management may involve antidiarrheal medications, bile acid binders, budesonide, and elimination of triggers such as NSAIDs.
• Ischemic colitis: Supportive care, bowel rest, and addressing the underlying vascular cause. Severe cases may require surgery.
• Infectious colitis: Targeted antibiotic or antiparasitic therapy depending on the organism.

Our team provides comprehensive care for all forms of colitis, helping patients achieve long-term control and improved quality of life.