Colitis is inflammation of the colon. Colitis may last a short time (acute) or it may last a long time (chronic).

This condition may be caused by:

• Viruses.

• Reactions to medicine.

CAUSES

• Bacteria.

• Certain autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of this condition include:

• Diarrhea.

• Passing bloody or tarry stool.

• Pain.

• Fever.

• Vomiting.

• Tiredness (fatigue).

• Weight loss.

• Bloating.

• Sudden increase in abdominal pain.

• Sudden increase in abdominal pain.

DIAGNOSIS

This condition is diagnosed with a stool test or a blood test. You may also have other tests, including X-rays, a CT scan, or a colonoscopy.

TREATMENT

Treatment may include:

• Resting the bowel. This involves not eating or drinking for a period of time.

• Fluids that are given through an IV tube.

• Medicine for pain and diarrhea.

• Antibiotic medicines.

• Cortisone medicines.

• Surgery.

HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Eating and Drinking

• Follow instructions from your health care provider about eating or drinking restrictions.

• Drink enough fluid to keep your urine clear or pale yellow.

• Avoid foods that cause flare-ups.

• Work with a dietitian to determine which foods cause your condition to flare up.

• Avoid foods that cause flare-ups.

• Avoid foods that cause flare-ups.

Medicines

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.

• If you were prescribed an antibiotic medicine, take it as told by your health care provider. Do not

• If you were prescribed an antibiotic medicine, take it as told by your health care provider. Do not stop taking the antibiotic even if you start to feel better.

General Instructions

• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF:

• You develop new symptoms.

SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE IF:

• You have a fever that does not go away with treatment.

• You develop chills.

• You develop severe pain in your abdomen.

• You pass bloody or tarry stool.

This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.