What is bowel inflammation?

bowel inflammation is a health condition in which the intestines are red and swollen. The term inflammatory bowel disease is used to describe this condition and can be caused by disorders such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms of intestinal inflammation may include abdominal cramps, diarrhea or weight loss. Treatment of intestinal inflammation usually includes dietary changes and prescription drugs, although surgery may be necessary in some situations.

Crohn's disease is a common cause of intestinal inflammation and primarily affects the lower part of the small intestine. The exact cause of Crohn's disease is unknown, although it is assumed that problems with the patient's immune system are believed. The common symptoms of Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, especially in the lower right of the abdomen and diarrhea, which can come and go without prior warning. Other potential symptoms include rectal bleeding, fever and loss weight. Some patients may also develop skin problems or arthritis as a resultCrohn's disease.

Treatment of Crohn's disease often begins with the use of prescription drugs and nutritional supplements. Symptoms often disappear for a while and then return, but many doctors recommend continuing to use the prescribed drugs, even during the period of remission. If these treatment methods are not successful, surgery may be performed to remove the damaged part of the intestine.

ulcerative colitis is another condition that is often responsible for intestinal inflammation. Ulcerative colitis causes ulcers known as ulcers in the intestines and rectum. It is believed that this condition stems from an autoimmune disorder and symptoms may be caused by stress or intolerance of certain foods. Normal symptoms of ulcerative colitis include fatigue, loss of applicationetite and rectal bleeding. Patients, especially children, can also take joint pain, anemia or stunted growth.

symptoms of ulcerative colitisThey tend to come and leave, and treatment usually consists in taking a combination of several prescription drugs in the hope that the condition will go to remission. Dehydration due to fluid loss through diarrhea or rectal bleeding can cause some patients to be temporarily hospitalized so that these lost fluids can be replaced. Many patients with this type of intestinal inflammation will require surgery to remove part or all intestines. This is usually necessary if massive bleeding occurs or when the large intestine has been torn.