Microscopic Colitis

Description

Microscopic colitis is a group of inflammatory bowel diseases that affect the large intestine (colon) and cause diarrhea. It is called "microscopic" because the inflammation can only be seen under a microscope. There are two types of microscopic colitis: collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis.

Symptoms of microscopic colitis include chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and weight loss. The condition is typically diagnosed with a colonoscopy or biopsy. It can be treated with medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressants, and by making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and avoiding triggers that can worsen symptoms.

Symptoms

Chronic diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Bloating
Weight loss

Causes

The exact cause of microscopic colitis is unknown, but some factors that may contribute to the development of the condition include:

Infections
Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Autoimmune disorders
Genetic factors
Environmental factors
Hormonal imbalances
Changes in the composition of the gut microbiome (the community of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in the intestine)

Risk factors

Age: Microscopic colitis is more common in people over the age of 50.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop microscopic colitis than men.
Smoking: Smokers are more likely to develop microscopic colitis.
Certain medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase the risk of developing microscopic colitis.
Family history: Having a family history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may increase the risk of developing microscopic colitis.

Complications

Malnutrition: Chronic diarrhea can lead to malnutrition, as the body is not able to absorb enough nutrients from food.
Dehydration: Chronic diarrhea can also cause dehydration, as the body loses more fluids than it takes in.
Anemia: Chronic blood loss from diarrhea can lead to anemia, which is a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells.
Bowel perforation: In rare cases, microscopic colitis can cause a hole to develop in the wall of the intestine, which is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication.

How to diagnose it?

Medical history and physical exam: A doctor will ask about the patient's symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Stool sample: A stool sample may be collected to test for infections or other conditions that may cause diarrhea.
Blood tests: Blood tests may be done to check for anemia or other underlying conditions.
Endoscopic procedures: An endoscope (a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end) may be used to examine the inside of the intestine and take samples of tissue (biopsy).
Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a doctor uses an endoscope to examine the inside of the colon and take biopsy samples.
CT scan or MRI: A CT scan or MRI may be done to get detailed images of the intestine.

How to prevent it?

There is no sure way to prevent microscopic colitis, as the exact cause of the condition is not fully understood. However, there are some steps that may help reduce the risk of developing the condition:

Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help reduce the risk of developing microscopic colitis.
Avoid triggers: Identifying and avoiding any triggers that may worsen symptoms, such as certain foods or medications, may help prevent flare-ups of microscopic colitis.
Don't smoke: Smoking may increase the risk of developing microscopic colitis.
Get vaccinated: Getting vaccinated against infections that may contribute to the development of microscopic colitis may help prevent the condition.
Practice good hygiene: Washing hands regularly and practicing good hygiene may help prevent infections that may contribute to the development of microscopic colitis.

When you need to see a doctor

It is important to see a doctor if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

Chronic diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Bloating
Weight loss

FAQs

Is microscopic colitis the same as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

No, microscopic colitis is a separate condition from IBS. Microscopic colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the colon, while IBS is a disorder that affects the large intestine but does not cause inflammation.

Can microscopic colitis be cured?

There is no known cure for microscopic colitis, but the condition can often be managed with medications and lifestyle changes. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to an individual's specific needs and symptoms.

Can microscopic colitis lead to other health problems?

Untreated microscopic colitis can lead to complications such as malnutrition, dehydration, and anemia. It is important to seek medical treatment for microscopic colitis to help prevent these complications.

Can diet and lifestyle changes help manage microscopic colitis?

Eating a healthy diet and avoiding triggers that can worsen symptoms may help manage microscopic colitis. It is important to work with a healthcare provider and a registered dietitian to develop a diet and lifestyle plan that is tailored to an individual's specific needs and symptoms.

Visit a doctor when you are suffering from microscopic colitis!