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Microscopic colitis causes inflammation and abdominal pain due to collagen and white blood cells buildup in the large intestine. Chronic diarrhea, dehydration, and nausea are common symptoms. The cause is unknown, but genetics, bacteria, viruses, and immune system malfunctions may contribute. Treatment includes diet changes, over-the-counter medication, and prescription medication if symptoms persist. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
Microscopic colitis is a medical condition that affects the intestines and colon. The disorder occurs when excessive amounts of collagen and white blood cells build up on the lining of the large intestine, causing inflammation and abdominal pain. The most common symptom of microscopic colitis is chronic diarrhea, which introduces additional symptoms such as dehydration, stomach cramps, bloating, and nausea. Microscopic colitis is not usually a serious condition and can usually be treated with home remedies, over-the-counter anti-diarrheal formulas, or medications prescribed by a licensed physician.
Although the exact cause of microscopic colitis is unknown, medical researchers have found evidence to suggest that genetics, bacteria, viruses, and immune system malfunctions may contribute to the disorder. Colon problems are generally more common in the elderly, although people of any age can be affected by microscopic colitis. Doctors have determined that older women, people with thyroid disorders, and those suffering from various immune system diseases have a higher risk of developing the condition.
A person with microscopic colitis usually experiences frequent episodes of watery diarrhea, usually lasting for about a month without treatment. Chronic diarrhea can cause dehydration and nausea as vital fluids are flushed out of the body. People often have symptoms of fatigue and may lose weight as dehydration worsens. Irritated and inflamed intestinal tissue can also cause significant abdominal pain, bloating and cramping in some individuals.
An individual suffering from symptoms of microscopic colitis should consult a doctor before starting any treatment so that a proper diagnosis can be made. Many people are able to overcome their symptoms by changing their diet and taking over-the-counter medications. People can usually find relief from chronic diarrhea by reducing or eliminating the consumption of fatty foods, dairy products, and caffeine-containing beverages. Individuals can drink plenty of water and juices to relieve symptoms of dehydration. Anti-diarrheal tablets, pills and liquids, available in most pharmacies and supermarkets, promote the production of healthy, solid stools and reduce the frequency of diarrhea episodes.
In most cases, people are able to overcome symptoms and get their colon back to functioning properly in as little as two to three weeks. If symptoms don’t subside after about a month and over-the-counter medications don’t seem to help, a doctor may prescribe oral anti-inflammatory and anti-diarrheal medications. People who don’t find relief with prescription drugs may need to have invasive colon surgery to rid their bodies of excessive collagen buildup.
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