Colitis

Alternate Names : Inflammation of the Colon

What are the treatments for the condition?

Antibiotics may be required for infectious colitis. If antibiotic use has caused the colitis, the inflammation usually clears up when the medicine is discontinued. Inflammatory bowel disease is treated with medicine to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. When the condition is due to reduced blood flow, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Medications used to treat colitis may cause stomach upset or allergic reactions. Medicines that suppress the immune system increase the risk of infection. Surgery carries the risk of infection, bleeding, and allergic reaction to the anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

A person with inflammatory bowel disease often needs lifelong treatment. An individual with other forms of colitis can usually return to normal activities after treatment.

How is the condition monitored?

Those with inflammatory bowel disease and poor blood flow often need frequent visits to the healthcare provider. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.