Colitis Left-sided

Left-sided colitis: Features, symptoms and treatment

Left-sided colitis is an inflammatory disease characterized by damage predominantly to the parts of the large intestine located on the left, including the descending colon and sigmoid colon. This is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can cause discomfort and significantly affect the patient's quality of life.

Symptoms of left-sided colitis may vary depending on the degree of inflammation and the individual characteristics of the patient. Some of the most common symptoms include:

1. Abdominal pain: Patients often feel pain or discomfort in the left lower abdomen. The pain may be spasmodic and intensify during disease activity.

2. Diarrhea: Frequent loose stools are a typical symptom of Left-sided colitis. In some cases, there may be blood or mucus in the stool.

3. Bloody diarrhea: Patients with more severe inflammation may experience bloody diarrhea. This is due to damage to the intestinal mucosa.

4. Loss of appetite and involuntary weight loss: Inflammation can lead to loss of appetite, which can lead to gradual weight loss.

5. Fatigue and weakness: Patients may experience general weakness and fatigue, which is associated with inflammation and poor absorption of nutrients.

6. Fever: In some cases, patients may experience increased body temperature associated with inflammation.

Treatment for left-sided colitis depends on the degree of inflammation and symptoms experienced by the patient. Doctors usually prescribe a combination of drug therapy and lifestyle changes. Here are some possible treatments:

1. Anti-inflammatory drugs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as sulfasalazine or mesalazine, are included to reduce inflammation in the intestines.

2. Immunomodulators: In some cases, drugs that modulate the immune system, such as azathioprine or methotrexate, may be needed.

3. Biologic therapy: If symptoms are not well controlled, biologic drugs such as infliximab or adalimumab, which block certain proteins responsible for inflammation, may be used.

4. Pro- and prebiotics: Some patients may benefit from taking probiotic and prebiotic medications, which help normalize the intestinal microflora.

5. Diet changes: Doctors may recommend changing your diet and eliminating certain foods that may worsen symptoms. For example, a diet low in fiber and bland foods may be recommended for patients with left-sided colitis.

6. Surgery: In some cases, when conservative treatment is not sufficiently effective or there are complications, surgery may be required. For example, if there is stenosis or abscess formation, resection of the affected part of the intestine may be necessary.

It is important to see a qualified physician for diagnosis and treatment of left-sided colitis. Only a doctor can determine the most effective treatment methods in each specific case. Compliance with the doctor's recommendations and support from loved ones will help the patient effectively manage the disease and improve his quality of life.

Left-sided colitis is one of the common diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, which manifests itself as colic in the left side of the abdomen. Patients with a similar diagnosis are characterized by pain and discomfort caused by damage to the colon in the left segment. Colic usually occurs after eating or due to stress, and may require taking painkillers to relieve pain.

According to WHO, more than 30% of the population have at least one case of gastrointestinal diseases, of which colitis makes up about 2%. Left-sided colitis mainly affects people over 50 years of age, and it is less common in men than in women. Colic as independent