That uncomfortable churning in your stomach. The urgent dash to the bathroom that interrupts your workday. The persistent pain that makes enjoying a meal with friends a distant memory. 

For millions of Americans living with colitis, these experiences aren't just inconveniences; they're daily realities that can dramatically affect quality of life.

If you or someone you love has recently been diagnosed with colitis, or if you're experiencing digestive symptoms that have you concerned, you're in the right place. Understanding this condition is the first step toward managing it effectively and reclaiming your wellbeing.

What Is Colitis? An Overview of Inflammation of the Colon

Colitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the colon's inner lining, also known as the large intestine. The colon is essential for digestion, absorbing water from digested food and preparing waste for elimination. When inflammation occurs in this area, it disrupts normal function and leads to many uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating symptoms.

Unlike a simple stomach bug that passes in a few days, colitis is typically a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with colitis can lead full, active lives.

Is Colitis Chronic?

It depends on the type of colitis. It's typically a chronic condition that needs ongoing care. But here's the good news: with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, most people with colitis can enjoy active, fulfilling lives without letting their condition define them.

Inflammation arises in different ways for different people. For some, like those with ulcerative colitis, it's a case of mixed signals: the immune system mistakenly attacks the colon's lining as if it were an unwelcome intruder. Others might develop colitis from an infection, reduced blood flow to the colon, or even a reaction to certain medications.

Risk factors for developing colitis include:

• Family history (particularly for inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis)
• Age (many forms develop before age 30, though they can appear at any age)
• Certain medications (like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Recent infections
• Smoking (which can worsen symptoms and increase complications)

Recent research finds that IBD is diagnosed in more than 0.7% of Americans, with 721 cases per 100,000 people, or nearly 1 in 100. This valuable research shows that these conditions are more common than many realize.

Common Symptoms and Types of Colitis

Living with colitis means experiencing a range of symptoms that can fluctuate between periods of active disease (flares) and remission.

Common symptoms include:

• Diarrhea, often with blood or mucus
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Urgent need to have bowel movements
• Feeling that the bowel hasn't emptied completely
• Fatigue
• Unintended weight loss
• Fever (during severe flares)

Not all colitis is created equal. Here are the main types you should know about.

Ulcerative Colitis

Part of the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) family, ulcerative colitis causes long-lasting inflammation and sores (ulcers) in the innermost lining of the colon and rectum. It typically begins in the rectum and lower colon but may spread to the entire colon.

Crohn's Colitis

While Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, when it primarily impacts the colon, it's called Crohn's colitis. Unlike ulcerative colitis, Crohn's can affect all layers of the bowel wall, not just the lining.

Microscopic Colitis

As the name suggests, this type can only be seen when colon tissue is examined under a microscope. It typically causes watery diarrhea without blood and is more common in older adults.

Ischemic Colitis

This occurs when blood flow to part of the colon is reduced, typically due to narrowed or blocked blood vessels. It's more common in people over 60 and those with heart or blood vessel diseases.

Infectious Colitis

Caused by bacteria (like C. difficile, E. coli, or Salmonella), viruses, or parasites, this form typically resolves once the infection is treated.

Diversion Colitis

This can develop in segments of the colon that have been surgically bypassed, typically after a colostomy or ileostomy.

If you're experiencing colitis symptoms, seeing a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis is paramount. Many conditions can mimic colitis, and determining the specific type is essential for effective treatment.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Colitis Patients

The good news is that colitis treatment options have expanded dramatically in recent years, offering hope to those struggling to find relief.

Treatment approaches vary depending on the type and severity of colitis but generally focus on reducing inflammation, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications.

Medications for Colitis

These form the cornerstone of colitis treatment and may include:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs (like aminosalicylates) to reduce inflammation in the colon
• Corticosteroids for short-term management of moderate to severe symptoms
• Immunosuppressants to reduce immune system activity that triggers inflammation
• Biologics that target specific proteins involved in inflammation
• Antibiotics for infectious colitis or complications

Dietary Changes to Help with Colitis

While no single diet works for everyone with colitis, many find that certain adjustments help manage symptoms:

• Keeping a food diary to identify trigger foods
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Staying well-hydrated
• Limiting high-fiber foods during flares
• Considering specialized approaches like low-FODMAP diets under medical supervision. This is a dietary pattern designed to manage digestive symptoms, such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. 

Stress Management to Avoid Colitis Flare-Ups

Stress doesn't cause colitis, but it can trigger flares and worsen symptoms. Effective stress-reduction techniques include:

• Regular exercise (modified as needed during flares)
• Meditation and deep breathing exercises
• Adequate sleep
• Support groups
• Professional counseling when needed

Colitis Surgery

For severe cases that don't respond to other treatments, you may need surgical options, particularly for ulcerative colitis or complications of other forms. These might include removing damaged portions of the colon or, in some cases, creating an internal pouch to preserve more normal bowel function.

Monitor Colitis Regularly

Because colitis increases the risk of colon cancer in some cases, regular colonoscopies and other screening methods are essential parts of long-term management.

Does Colitis Go Away?

Can Infectious Colitis Be Cured?

Infectious colitis (caused by bacteria like C. difficile, E. coli, or parasites) typically resolves completely with prompt antibiotic treatment. Most patients experience full recovery without long-term issues once the infection is eliminated.

Is Ulcerative Colitis Permanent?

Yes. Ulcerative colitis is considered a lifelong condition without a permanent cure. 

However, effective treatments can likely lead to extended remission periods, during which painful and uncomfortable symptoms disappear and inflammation subsides. Many patients achieve "deep remission" with minimal impact on daily life.

Can Crohn's Colitis Go Into Remission?

Like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's colitis is chronic but can enter remission with appropriate treatment. Remission patterns vary significantly between individuals; some experience infrequent flares with long symptom-free periods, while others require ongoing medication adjustments.

Does Microscopic Colitis Resolve On Its Own?

Microscopic colitis cases can resolve spontaneously. Some patients experience only one episode, while others may develop a relapsing pattern. Treatment is typically recommended even in mild cases to speed recovery. 

In short, it varies from person to person.

What Is The Recovery Timeline For Ischemic Colitis?

Ischemic colitis usually improves once blood flow to the colon is restored. Recovery depends on severity: mild cases often heal completely, while severe episodes may cause some permanent colon changes.

What Is The Long-Term Outlook For Colitis Patients?

The overall outlook for patients with colitis is good. Modern treatments focus on achieving mucosal healing, restoring the intestinal lining to a healthy state, rather than just controlling symptoms. Most patients can achieve lasting remission with advanced biologics and targeted therapies with minimal disease impact.

While chronic colitis forms cannot be permanently "cured," you can manage them. Most patients with colitis lead normal, active lives with proper treatment and regular medical care.

Treating Colitis at Summit Health

At Summit Health, we understand that colitis is more than just a medical condition; it's a daily reality that affects every aspect of your life. That's why our gastroenterology team takes a personalized, comprehensive approach to colitis care.

When you visit Summit Health for colitis treatment, you'll benefit from:

• Board-certified gastroenterologists who specialize in inflammatory bowel conditions
• State-of-the-art diagnostic tools for accurate assessment
• Customized treatment plans that consider your specific type of colitis, lifestyle, and goals
• A multidisciplinary team including nutritionists, mental health professionals, and surgeons when needed
• Access to the latest treatment options, including clinical trials of emerging therapies
•  Ongoing support to help you navigate the emotional and practical challenges of living with colitis

We believe in partnering with our patients, empowering you with knowledge and options while providing compassionate care every step of the way.

Contact our gastroenterology department today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better colitis management.