Colitis is defined as a swelling of the large intestine, according to Medline Plus. Colitis can occur due to a number of things including infections, lack of blood flow, prior radiation and chronic inflammatory diseases. The most common symptoms that accompany colitis are abdominal bloating and pain, bloody stools, dehydration, diarrhea and an increase in intestinal gas. Different options are available to treat colitis.
Aminosalicylates
A number of different drug treatments are available for colitis. The first category of drug is aminosalicylates. The anti-inflammatory agent 5-aminosalicyclic acid, 5-ASA, is the active ingredient in this drug and controls swelling. Side effects associated with aminosalicylates include nausea, heartburn, diarrhea and headache, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Aminosalicylates are given to those with mild colitis or for those experiencing a relapse from prior treatment.
Corticosteroids
Another class of drugs used in the treatment of colitis is corticosteroids. These drugs also reduce inflammation and are used for those who do not respond to well to other drug treatment, according to Mayo Clinic. Corticosteroids are prescribed only for short-term use because long-term use can cause side effects such as weight gain, high blood pressure, mood swings, osteoporosis and diabetes.
Immunomodulators
Immunomodulators are a class of drug that reduces inflammation by suppressing the body's immune system. It can take up to 6 months for immunomodulators to produce a significant effect, according to the National Digestive Diseases Clearinghouse. Possible complications of immunomodulators are severe and include inflammation of the pancreas or liver and a reduced white blood cell count, which increases risk for infection. Because of these severe complications, immunomodulators are used only for those with severe colitis or those who have not responded to other drug treatment.
Illeostomy
An illeostomy is a surgical procedure that is used in conjunction with a proctocolectomy, which is the removal of the colon and rectum. During an illeostomy, the surgeon will create a small opening in the abdomen to which he will connect the small intestine. A pouch is then placed over the opening. Bodily waste will travel through the small intestine and out of the abdomen into the pouch. The pouch must be emptied manually.
Illeoanal Anastomosis
An illeoanal anastomosis is the removal of the colon and the inside of the rectum, leaving the outer rectum intact. The small intestine is then attached to the inside of the rectum, which creates a pouch inside of the body. Waste passes into the pouch, but is able to leave the body naturally through the anus, according to Mayo Clinic. An increase in loose bowel movements is a common complication of this procedure.
