Colitis (Inflammation of the Colon)

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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Colitis
Category : Health Centers > Digestive System

Colitis

Alternate Names : Inflammation of the Colon

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

Colitis is a general term that refers to the inflammation of the colon, or large intestine.

What is going on in the body?

Colitis causes the inside lining of the colon to become inflamed and irritated. This can lead to a number of symptoms, depending on the problem causing the colitis.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

The most common causes of colitis include:

a change in the bacteria of the colon, which is often due to the use of antibiotics

damage to the colon from radiation therapy

infection, such as traveler's diarrhea

inflammatory bowel disease, an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the colon for unknown reasons

poor blood flow to the colon

side effects of medicines

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		Colitis: Symptoms & Signs

Author: Adam Brochert, MD
Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Date Reviewed: 06/06/01

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