About Colitis Colon Inflammation, Types of Colitis, Colitis Symptoms

Do you think you might have colitis? This health blurb provides a bit of information about colitis to help you further assess your situation. And don’t limit your quest for answers to colitis because it is only one of the several health conditions that cause upset to the lower digestive tract.

Colitis means your colon, aka large intestine, is inflamed and irritated. Inflammation plays an important role in defense of your body against bad stuff like pathogens, allergens and toxins. However, its presence can also disrupt the ability of tissue to function appropriately. In the case of colitis, disrupting the activity of your colon can cause grumbling discomfort.

Your colon is the site for a couple of health promoting functions. It absorbs water and electrolytes (bile salts) out of fecal matter, thus preparing it for elimination. Your large intestine is home to various bacteria that help break down complex carbohydrates and residual protein to nourish your colon’s mucous membrane and for possible absorption. Your colon absorbs certain vitamins (K, biotin, B5) produced by your resident large intestinal flora. And finally, this portion of your digestive tract propels the unused food stuff out of your body.

Colitis has a variety of causes, for instance:

Based on the cause, you are diagnosed to have a specific type of colitis, such as:

Notorious colitis symptoms are intermittent cramp pain, bloating, grumbling and diarrhea. And depending on the type of colitis you have, you could experience some of these additional symptoms:

Also, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance symptoms may occur if you fail to replace what’s lost via your diarrhea.

If you suspect you’re suffering with colon inflammation, then visit your health care provider ASAP for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.