Colitis is swelling within the large intestine, often causing abdominal pain and other discomfort. At Desert Valley Gastroenterology in Mesa, Arizona, the region’s leading gastroenterologists are colitis experts who use evidence-based approaches to relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life. Call the office for colitis help today.
Colitis is inflammation (swelling) within the large intestine. It can cause disruptive issues such as:
Colitis causes many of the same symptoms as ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Some people with colitis go on to receive an ulcerative colitis diagnosis.
Ulcerative colitis is one of the main types of IBD. It causes inflammation within the lining of the large intestine, leading to ulcers (sores). Colitis doesn’t cause ulcers.
While most symptoms of colitis and ulcerative colitis are similar, ulcerative colitis can also cause issues like mouth sores, joint pain, and skin rashes.
Both colitis and ulcerative colitis mainly occur in the lower part of the large intestine but can also affect the upper part.
Ulcerative colitis and colitis have different causes. Bacterial and viral infections can cause colitis. An infection doesn’t cause ulcerative colitis. It occurs when the immune system malfunctions and attacks your large intestine, so it’s generally classified as an autoimmune disease.
Ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition, while colitis could be a temporary problem based on its cause.
Desert Valley Gastroenterology performs various tests to diagnose colitis and ulcerative colitis, including blood tests and procedures like colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy. They perform all procedures at the Southwest Endoscopy & Surgicenter in Gilbert.
At Desert Valley Gastroenterology, the team treats the root cause of your colitis if possible.
For example, some people with colitis have an infection that responds to antibiotics.
You may need inflammation-reducing medications (anti-inflammatories) or other drugs to calm inflammation.
Ulcerative colitis may require immunomodulators, biologics, or other medications to control the overactive immune system effectively. The team may recommend surgery if you’re not responding to medication and can’t tolerate your symptoms. About 23-45% of people with ulcerative colitis eventually need surgery.
If you have abdominal pain, frequent diarrhea, or other colitis symptoms, call Desert Valley Gastroenterology to get the support you need from the experts today.