Colonic Ischemia
Colonic Ischemia Causes
The condition is usually due to disrupted blood flow to the colon that interferes with normal functions. The condition may sometimes be caused by other medical conditions including inflammation of the blood vessels, easy blood clotting, radiation treatment to the abdomen, thrombosis in the arteries and veins, or abdominal surgery.
Colonic Ischemia Definition
Colonic ischemia is a medical condition mostly found in adults at 50 years of age or older. It is a condition in which the colon is inflamed and injured. The condition is also called ischemic colitis.
Colonic Ischemia Diagnosis
The doctor takes the patient's medical history and conducts a physical examination, during which the abdomen is checked for areas of tenderness. The patient may also undergo diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopy, biopsy, X-rays of the abdomen and pelvis, abdominal arteriogram, abdominal magnetic resonance imaging, abdominal computerized tomography scans, blood tests, and stool sample.
Colonic Ischemia Symptoms and Signs
The condition usually has mild symptoms but can become severe. Most people with the condition feel pain on the left side of the abdomen. Affected individuals has low-grade fever, blood in the stool, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Colonic Ischemia Treatment
Treatment of the condition depends on its severity. If it is mild, medications may be prescribed to keep blood pressure at normal levels or antibiotics to prevent development of infections. Other cases may need hospitalization to be administered with fluids and nutrients through the veins as well as food intake restrictions. The condition is monitored with follow-up colonoscopies.