Colitis in New Orleans, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is colitis?
Colitis is a disease that is defined as the general inflammation of the inner lining of the digestive tract. Though ulcerative colitis is oftentimes known as colitis, they are two separate things. Several different forms of this digestive disorder can cause swelling of the colon, in addition to other related signs. Some frequent types of colitis include:
- Ischemic (ischaemic) colitis: A consequence of poor blood supply
- Microscopic colitis: Leads to frequent loose diarrhea
- IBD colitis (ulcerative colitis): Leads to discomfort and swelling of the digestive tract
- Infectious colitis (food poisoning): A result of ingestion of viruses and bacteria
The skilled providers at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates are here to address different forms of colitis as well as other GI ailments. If you want to obtain assistance for colitis in New Orleans, LA or to discuss your care choices, we welcome you to request a consultation at a local practice now.
What causes colitis?
There are many different reasons why the innermost tissue lining of the large bowel could become inflamed. Some of the most frequent reasons are:
- Allergies
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Attack of the intestinal wall with collagen or lymphocytic white blood cells
- Crohn’s disease
- Infection (related to parasites invading the digestive system)
- Some over-the-counter and prescription medications (common drugs contributing to colitis include NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and mycophenolate)
- Diminished blood flow to the intestine (ischemia)
No matter the reason for your colitis, you will be able to find a gastroenterologist at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates who understands how to manage your issue.
What are the symptoms of colitis?
Signs of potential colitis include:
- Abnormal bowel habits (including the persistent urge to have a bowel movement)
- Tenderness in the abdomen
- Sores in the mouth
- Higher than normal body temperature and/or chills (signs of infection)
- Depression
- Loose, watery stool (with or without blood in the stool)
- Stools with blood
- Red, inflamed eyes
- Sores on the large intestine
- Pain in/of the joints or colon (abdomen) that could arise periodically or be persistent
- Rapid weight loss
- Cramps
- Tiredness
If you are having any combination of the named symptoms consistently, we encourage you to contact us and get assistance from our group of New Orleans, LA gastroenterology specialists.
What are the treatments for colitis?
Standard treatments used for all types of colitis often include:
- Changes to your diet
- Improving essential body functions
- Common inflammatory bowel disease medications
- Rehydration of the body (by mouth or through an IV)
- Pain-relieving medications
Depending on the cause of the colitis, intervention choices can range.
- Infections: If the infection is caused by bacteria, then antibiotics might be the right course of treatment. When the problem is the result of a virus, then hydrating the body and waiting several days would be the best approach to address your colitis.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: If the cause of the inflammation is a result of ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, then NSAID medications may be advised to start with and immunosuppressants might be required. A surgical procedure could be necessary depending on the level of the colitis.
- Microscopic colitis: In some instances, the body is capable of healing on its own. It could alternatively be treated using anti-diarrheal drugs and some corticosteroid drugs, changes to dietary intake, and on rare occasions, surgical procedures.
- Ischemic colitis: The primary therapy for ischemic colitis is to add fluids to the body by way of intravenous fluids and only consume clear liquids. If blood flow is not restored to the colon, then a surgical procedure might be recommended to remove those parts of the large intestine that suffered the loss of blood circulation.
When should I visit a specialist for colitis?
Don't hesitate to see a GI specialist if you experience diarrhea that persists for at least 14 days, bloody stools, dehydration or fever, or irregular stomach discomfort that gets worse with time. When you are seeking a specialist to help treat or address colitis, you can locate a board-certified gastroenterologist through Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates.
Get the care your need for colitis
Always on the forefront of the latest developed and upcoming treatments for colitis and numerous other gastroenterological disorders, the providers at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates administer patient-centric treatment that helps individuals experience higher well-being. For specialized colitis treatment in New Orleans, LA, we invite you to request a consultation with a local gastroenterology team today.
Reviews
I met Dr. Pollack , for a first time visit. His energy was great! I look forward, to any other meetings with him.
Dr. Puente is the most caring and thorough doctor. He's the best and would definitely recommend him to anyone.
Dr Herbert Mayer is by far the most caring thoughtful Dr that had helped me with my intestinal problems for over 30 yrs. He has helped me with test etc to teach me how to care for myself with my health with safe step by step simple ways to help me with my ischemic colitis. Dr Mayer is the best gaster entomologist out there. Thanks again!
Great medical staff!!!
I give Dr. Brett Hymel 5 stars his service was Exceptional. Thank you
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