What Is Ischemic Colitis? Its Complications And What To Eat

Ischemic colitis is a gastrointestinal problem. It is a condition in which the arteries (blood vessels) that supply blood to the large intestine become narrow or are completely blocked. Due to reduced supply of blood, the cells of the intestine are not oxygenated adequately. This results in intestinal pain, inflammation and permanent colon damage.

The large intestine is very long and ischemia can occur in any part of the colon. The pain in the belly can be abrupt or gradual. It is accompanied with blood and mucus in stools. Patient may feel an urgency to pass stool.

The pain is more on the left lower side of the abdomen.

Ischemic colitis is more prevalent in elderly individuals. The exact cause of the disorder is not clear but certain risk factors are known and they are; atherosclerosis of colonic artery, low blood pressure, intestinal obstruction, surgical repair of major blood vessels, colon cancer and use of certain drugs such as cocaine etc. Patient suffering from irritable bowel syndrome is at a greater risk of suffering from ischemic colitis.

The symptoms of ischemic colitis mimic other gastrointestinal problems and thus it becomes difficult to pinpoint the diagnosis.

It can be detected only with examination and history. Medical treatment or surgery may be necessary to avoid complications. At times, the condition heals on its own.

Complications Of Ischemic Colitis

In majority of cases, ischemic colitis gets cured on its own in a few days. However, in severe cases, it can complicate further and lead to serious health problems.

• Death of the affected region (gangrene): Due to decreased blood supply or complete blockage of the artery, the affected part of colon becomes necrosed (dies). This may lead to gangrene of the large intestine.
• Perforation: Ischemia may lead to inflammation of the bowels. Due to inflammation, the lining of the intestine becomes thin and risk of perforation increases.
• Obstruction of large intestine: It is one of the complications which require immediate attention as the condition can deteriorate further. It may become a life threatening issue.

All the complications need urgent surgical intervention.

What Is The Diet After Ischemic Colitis?

Diet plays an important role in ischemic colitis. Proper diet during this period is an essential part of the treatment. The diet should comprise of easily digestible foods. Eating a bland diet is a better option. The aim of selecting diets during this period is to heave off the extra load of food and help easy digestion as well as to encourage the healing process.

• Eating bananas are beneficial. Bananas are rich in potassium and phosphorus. They are easy to digest. Potassium content ensures smooth supply of oxygen to the circulatory system. Therefore it helps the ischemic artery to dilate.
• Buttermilk is an easily digestible liquid. Also, buttermilk contains potassium and vitamins which are essential during colitis.
• Applesauce not only has all the nutritive value but it also has fibers which play an important role in any digestive troubles. Applesauce also has anti inflammatory properties and thus it is beneficial for ischemic colitis.
• Coconut water is a time tested remedy for all digestive troubles including ischemic colitis.
• Other foods that can be included in the diet are rice, papaya, apple, porridge, toast, watermelon, yogurt etc.
• Certain foods that produce gas should be avoided during ischemic colitis such as fried foods, spicy foods, cabbage, broccoli, corn, mustard seeds, raw vegetables, turnip, popcorn etc.

Source: tandurust