Ischemic colitis

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Ischemic Colitis

Ischemic colitis (pronounced: is-KEE-mik koh-LY-tis) is a medical condition that occurs when blood flow to the colon is reduced, often due to narrowed or blocked blood vessels. This lack of blood can cause pain and potentially damage the cells in the colon.

Etymology

The term "ischemic colitis" is derived from the Greek words "ischaimos" meaning "stopping blood" and "kolon" which refers to the colon.

Symptoms

Symptoms of ischemic colitis can include abdominal pain, bloody stool, and an urgent need to defecate. In severe cases, it can lead to gangrene or perforation of the colon.

Causes

Ischemic colitis can be caused by a variety of conditions that affect blood flow, including atherosclerosis, hypotension, and certain types of surgery. It is most common in older adults and those with underlying vascular disease.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ischemic colitis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as a CT scan or colonoscopy.

Treatment

Treatment for ischemic colitis often involves managing the underlying condition that caused the reduced blood flow. This can include medications to improve blood flow, antibiotics to prevent infection, and in severe cases, surgery to remove the affected part of the colon.

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