What is Colon Inflammation?
The function of the large intestine (also called the colon) is to absorb salt and water from the stool while pushing the solid stool towards the anus with peristaltic movements (rhythmic bowel movements). Inflammation of the mucous membrane covering the large intestine is called "colitis".
There are two types of inflammation of the large intestine. The acute type seen as a result of infection or allergy lasts for a short time, while chronic or ulcerative colitis is a much more serious disease that can cause serious problems. Although it can be seen at any age, it is most common between the ages of 20-40.
Causes of Colon Inflammation:
The causes of acute colitis are dysentery, typhoid, enteroviruses and mostly food allergies.
Although the cause of chronic colitis is not known for certain, there are some assumptions. These include bacterial infections and allergies to milk and dairy products.
Symptoms and Dangers of Colon Inflammation:
Symptoms of both types of colon inflammation include abdominal pain and sudden onset of watery diarrhea. In chronic colitis, the patient may need to defecate 15-20 times a day, and each time a large amount of pus, mucus, and even blood is excreted. Sometimes the patient does not pass stool despite feeling the need to evacuate. In more severe cases, dehydration, anemia, loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting and high fever may occur.
Colon Inflammation Treatment and Result:
In acute colitis, the patient should rest in bed. Medicines containing kaolin are used against diarrhea.
In the treatment of chronic colitis, salazoprin (a combination of antibiotics and aspirin-like substances) is given three times a day. Injecting liquid hydrocortisone into the intestine helps relieve pain. The patient eats soft, protein-rich foods and eats very little fruit and vegetables. If the cause of the disease is psychological, psychological treatment may also be useful.
In acute colitis, when the cause of the disease is eliminated, the patient fully recovers. Some patients recover after an attack of chronic colitis, but in most the disease lasts a lifetime.
