Colitis

Colitis (Ulcerative Colitis) is an acute or chronic inflammation of the lining of the colon (bowel). Colitis causes inflammation and sores (ulcers) in the top layers of the lining of the large intestine. Colitis rarely affects the small intestine. The inflammation causes irritation making the colon empty frequently, causing diarrhea. Ulcers form in places where the inflammation has killed healthy intestinal cells. The ulcers then bleed and excrete pus and mucus. Corresponding symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, painful spasms, lack of appetite, fever and fatigue.

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which is the general name for diseases causing inflammation in the intestines. Ulcerative colitis can initially be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to other intestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease, another type of IBD.

· Crohn’s disease differs from ulcerative colitis because it causes inflammation deeper within the intestinal wall. Crohn’s disease usually occurs in the small intestine, but it can also occur in the mouth, esophagus, stomach, duodenum, large intestine, appendix, and anus. Ulcerative colitis affects only the colon.

· Another confusing condition called irritable bowel syndrome is not like either ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder of the intestine that leads to cramps, excessive production of gas, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Most common causes of colitis have been linked to a virus or bacteria that attack the immune system causing ongoing inflammation. However, while the immune system reaction is the result, the cause maybe be due to emotional stress, food sensitivity, genetic predisposition, infection agents or environmental toxins, smoking and even psychological factors.

Homeopathic treatment plans for colitis and other inflammatory and gastrointestinal issues address primarily the cause of the disease. From there a patient will see consistent progress over weeks and months in immune system fortification, healthier bowel movements, elimination of pain and discomfort and more regularity in diet and lifestyle factors. Long term maintenance will help prevent further inflammation and weakness by constantly boosting the immune system and thereby eliminating all latent bacterial and viral invaders. Nutraceutical supplementation in such cases is beneficial would be incorporated into the treatment plan for more beneficial results. More about homeopathy......