Ileocolitis is a type of Crohn’s disease and is also called as inflammatory bowel disease. This disorder normally affects the ileum and colon simultaneously; hence the name “ileocolitis” is given. Ileocolitis occurs in one half of the people who suffer from Crohn’s disease. In severe cases, the affected parts of the colon or ileum can become contagious thereby spreading to other areas like small intestine and large intestine.
This disease affects the ileum and large intestine and is a chronic inflammatory disorder causing digestive problems.
Causes :
Ileocolitis is an autoimmune disorder caused by the body’s own immune system. The defense mechanism of the body instead of protecting the tissue will start attacking the healthy cells. The chronic inflammation in the rectum or ileum damages the wall of the intestine which would become thicker in size than normal. Improper diet and stress are other causes of ileocolitis.
Some believe that this disorder can be hereditary wherein it is passed on to next generation through carrier genes of the parents. Since this disease involves immune system, people who are in the developing ages (20-30) are more prone to get this problem than adults.
This is a disease caused by mucus and hence one should limit taking acidity foods. Acidosis is the main reason for causing inflammation of the ileum and colon. Smoking may also increase the risk of ileocolitis.
People who work in the atmosphere prone to industrial pollution have increased chance of getting this problem.
Symptoms :
Some of the common signs of this disorder are swelling of intestine, pain in the abdomen, fever, loss of appetite, digestive problems and diarrhea. Depending on the area affected it may cause ulcerous growth like sores and inflammation. Fistulas may be formed on the rectal area causing pain along with pus like discharge.