Colitis in Dallas, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is colitis?
Colitis is a disorder that indicates the overall inflammation of the mucosal lining of the colon. Though ulcerative colitis is oftentimes called colitis, these are actually two different conditions. There are various forms of this condition that can cause swelling of the large intestine, in addition to other related signs. A few common types of colitis include:
- Microscopic colitis: Results in persistent loose bowel movements
- Ischemic (ischaemic) colitis: An outcome of poor blood circulation
- Ulcerative colitis (IBD colitis): Leads to irritation and inflammation of the intestinal tract
- Infectious colitis (food poisoning): A result of ingestion of contaminated food or drinks
The skilled doctors at Digestive Health Associates of Texas are ready to treat the various forms of colitis as well as other GI ailments. If you need to locate therapy for colitis in Dallas, TX, or to discuss available treatment choices, we welcome you to request a consultation at a provider near you today.
What can cause colitis?
There are many different reasons why the innermost tissue lining of the large bowel might be inflamed. A few of the most common reasons include:
- Crohn’s disease
- IBD (inflammatory bowel disease)
- Allergies
- Invasion of the colon wall with protein or lymphocytes
- Particular over-the-counter and prescription medicines (frequent medicines bringing on colitis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and mycophenolate)
- Reduction of blood circulation to the intestine (ischemia)
- Infection (as a result of parasites in the intestines)
No matter the cause of your colitis, you can speak to a provider at Digestive Health Associates of Texas who is equipped to treat your illness.
What are the symptoms of colitis?
Signs of potential colitis are:
- Higher than normal body temperature and/or chilling (symptoms of infection)
- Stools with blood
- Swelling or redness of the eyes
- Unexplained weight loss
- Discomfort in/of the joints or abdomen (colon), which can come periodically or be persistent
- Mouth sores
- Sores on the large intestine
- Tenderness in the abdomen
- Watery, loose stool (with or without the presence of blood in bowel movement)
- Out-of-the-ordinary bathroom habits (such as the constant need to eliminate waste)
- Cramps
- Tiredness
- Feeling depressed
If you are showing any combination of the listed issues consistently, we invite you to reach out to us and get care with our caring team of Dallas, TX digestive providers.
What are some treatment options for colitis?
Standard therapies across all types of colitis could involve:
- Changes to your diet
- Administering fluids to the body (orally or intravenously)
- Improving essential body functions
- Pain-relieving drugs
- Common inflammatory bowel disease medicines
According to the cause of the colitis, intervention options might vary.
- Ischemic colitis: The normal treatment for ischemic colitis is to add fluids to the body with intravenous therapy and rest the bowel. If blood supply is not improved to the colon, then a surgical procedure might be performed to extract those parts of the large bowel that suffered the loss of blood circulation.
- Infections: If bacteria is the cause of infection, then antibiotics might be the right course of treatment. If the infection is viral, then hydrating the body and allowing time to pass are the ideal methods to resolve the colitis.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: If the source of the inflammation comes as a result of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, then NSAID drugs might be provided at first and medications that suppress the immune system might be used if needed. A surgical procedure could be necessary based on the severity of the colitis.
- Microscopic colitis: In certain instances, a person's body is capable of healing by itself. It could also be treated with anti-diarrheal drugs as well as particular corticosteroid drugs, alterations to dietary intake, and less frequently, surgical procedures.
For more information about options available to treat colitis in Dallas, TX, contact Digestive Health Associates of Texas today to request a consultation.
When should I see a specialist about colitis?
Don't hesitate to speak with a gastroenterologist whenever you deal with diarrhea that continues for more than two weeks, stools with blood, fever or dehydration, or severe abdominal discomfort that worsens over time. If you are searching for a gastroenterologist to work with you to alleviate or manage colitis, then you can visit a qualified GI provider at Digestive Health Associates of Texas. Always at the cutting edge of new and growing treatments for colitis and other gastroenterological diseases, our doctors provide thorough care that allows our patients the ability to attain optimal well-being. For specialized colitis care in Dallas, TX, please request a consultation with one of our skilled GI providers at a Digestive Health Associates of Texas location near you today.
Colitis FAQs
How can you distinguish between colitis and ulcerative colitis?
Differentiating between colitis and ulcerative colitis is important due to their distinct health impacts. Colitis is a general term indicating inflammation of the colon, which can arise from various sources such as infections, reduced blood flow, medications, or allergic reactions, causing symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis, in comparison, is a particular type of colitis that belongs to the category of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). It involves chronic inflammation and ulcer development along the inner lining of the colon and rectum, often leading to more intense symptoms.
What dietary changes help with colitis?
Managing colitis requires a diet that eases intestinal distress and supports healing. A low-residue diet, which cuts down on fiber to reduce bowel movement volume and frequency, can be effective. Additionally, an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lean proteins, and abundant fruits and vegetables, can help mitigate inflammation. Moreover, an elimination diet, where potential irritants such as gluten, dairy, and processed foods are removed and then reintroduced, can help identify food sensitivities. Together, we will work to find a diet that alleviates symptoms, maintains nutritional balance, and promotes overall digestive health.
What are the dangers of leaving colitis untreated?
When colitis is left untreated, it can result in severe complications, including the risk of colon perforation, a critical condition where a hole forms in the colon wall. Patients may also develop toxic megacolon, defined by rapid swelling and the potential for colon rupture. Furthermore, untreated colitis raises the risk of colon cancer due to chronic inflammation and increases the likelihood of other inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis or skin disorders. Early diagnosis and management are essential to prevent these serious health outcomes.
Expert treatment for your colitis
If you or a loved one are dealing with the listed uncomfortable symptoms and need assistance with treatment for your colitis in Dallas, TX, we are here to help. The skilled GI specialists at Digestive Health Associates of Texas are at the cutting edge of treatments available for colitis and want to help relieve your symptoms today. To learn more about how we can help you on the road to better GI health, request a consultation today.
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Always very professional and short waiting time is
Dr Shea is the best! He diagnosed my ulcerative colitis and has been taking care of me for 16 years now. I found him during a random search and I’m so glad I did. Staff is great too!!
Dr. Joseph has helped me control my colitis for several years. I highly recommend him.
After being diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis, Dr Nadir greatly improved the quality of my life and continues to do so! With a friendly staff, Dr Nadir delivers the highest quality care with the utmost sincerity. I feel fortunate to have him as my Specialist! Thank you Dr Nadir!
Dr Joseph is awesome, he takes excellent care me always for the last 10 years
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