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Spastic colitis, also known as irritable bowel syndrome, causes pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. It can be triggered by food allergies or excess gas, and symptoms vary from person to person. Treatment may involve dietary changes, fiber supplements, and over-the-counter or prescription medications. Avoiding triggers can prevent serious outbreaks.
Also known as nervous colon syndrome and mucous colitis, spastic colitis is a condition in which the normal contractions of the gastrointestinal tract are accompanied by pain, bloating, and noticeable changes in bowel habits. The disorder can also cause mucus to appear in the stool. All of the symptoms associated with spastic colitis are also identified with irritable bowel syndrome, and many medical professionals use both terms to describe the same disorder.
An episode of spastic colitis can occur due to food allergies, such as a reaction to artificial sweeteners. People who are lactose intolerant may face a bout of this condition after consuming a certain amount of dairy products. Consuming certain foods that create excess gas in the system can also trigger an episode.
Along with different causes of spastic colitis, different symptoms can manifest. The severity of these symptoms varies from person to person. You also don’t have to experience all of the known symptoms of spastic colitis to be diagnosed with the condition.
Both constipation and diarrhea can occur during an episode of this disorder. It is not uncommon for the two symptoms to alternate during a single episode or from one episode to another. There is also a constant sense of being full and a little bloated in between. Many people find that they have more frequent bouts of flatulence during an episode, as well as cramping in the abdomen which can get quite painful.
In situations where symptoms appear to be mild, treatment of spastic colitis may focus on making certain dietary changes. The use of fiber supplements may be recommended to help restore regularity of bowel movements. It may also be worth cutting down on foods that are known to produce gas, such as raw cabbage and cauliflower. Different types of legumes can also be minimized or eliminated from the diet altogether.
A doctor may also recommend over-the-counter medications to help with bloating and diarrhea. When this is the case, medications should be taken as directed by your doctor. If they don’t seem to be providing much in the way of relief, you and your doctor can look into more aggressive prescription drugs that may help with your situation. This may include the use of anticholinergics, which impact some functions related to the autonomic nervous system. Some antidepressants are known to relieve some of the symptoms of spastic colitis.
While the condition is ongoing, many people go years between bouts of spastic colitis. By learning what can cause an outbreak and avoiding those foods or related causes, serious outbreaks can be prevented. Although mild episodes can still appear from time to time, they are usually short-lived and can be managed with over-the-counter remedies.
