Redness of the large or small intestine is the main indication of intestine swelling. Intestinal inflammation or enteritis is another name for this health condition. There are several types of conditions that can result in inflammation, like food allergies, infections, and autoimmune diseases. It is important to know the primary causes and signs of swollen intestines. You can manage and treat the condition on time before it gets late.
However, in some cases, mild inflammation may withdraw on their own. However severe or continual symptoms may need the attention of healthcare experts. It generally links to disorders like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as IBD and IBS.
The person’s medical history and physical examination help the doctor to analyze the signs. Blood tests, imaging tests, and many more such diagnostic tests provide an effective diagnosis for patients.
Depending on its causes, treatment options vary but frequently include:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Changes in regular diet
- Lifestyle modifications.
Now, we will learn about intestine swelling, its symptoms, causes, and effective treatments to achieve good health.
What is Intestine Swelling?
It is a condition where the gut swelling becomes worse. Many reasons cause this swelling and affect different parts of the GI tract. An increase of the intestines can also lead to ill health conditions, such as:
- Abscesses
- Strictures
- Fistulas
These problems can cause symptoms like:
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Changes in bowel habits.
Symptoms of Intestine Swelling
Worsening of the redness and its location signify the IBD symptoms. Some of them may range from mild to severe. That includes:
- Abdominal Pain and Cramping
Stomach pain mostly occurs in the lower belly and it is a common symptom of IBD. Infection in the GI tract is the main cause of tummy pain. It can lead to discomfort, cramping sensation and even bloating.
- Rectal Bleeding
Blood in the stool may occur, ranging from mild spotting to more enhanced bleeding. It happens when the rectum gets redden and it starts to bleed in the stool. If the amount of bleeding increases then patients can consult with their doctor.
- Diarrhea
Chronic or continuous watery stool, sometimes accompanied by blood or mucus, is a symptom of an infection IBD. It occurs due to a number of possible reasons, including inflammation, impaired salt and water absorption, and other conditions.
- Weight Loss
Long-term issues can cause the body to break down muscle and fat. Dehydration and nutrient loss are the after-effects of weight loss. Unexplained weight loss can occur due to decreased appetite, nutrient malabsorption, and inflammation.
- Skin Problems
Various problems can occur in some individuals with IBD. These skin problems may appear or worsen during flares of IBD. It indicates a connection to intestinal inflammation.
- Joint Pain
Some individuals with IBD may experience joint pain, swelling, or discomfort. It occurs mainly in large joints of the body parts. If the joint pain is severe, or persistent, or if you notice swelling, then you should contact your health care expert.
- Anaemia
Insufficiency of iron can cause anemia due to blood loss from inflamed internal organ tissue. Iron deficiency is the most common type of anemia. Prolonged GI blood loss can lead to anemia.
- Low Appetite
Loss of craving or early fullness may occur, particularly during active disease periods. Inflammation in the digestive tract, side effects of drugs, fatigue, and altered taste perception can all contribute to decreased appetite in IBD patients.
- Fever
Low fever may be present during flare-ups of infection in the gastrointestinal tract. Some drugs that are used to treat IBD, such as biologics, can cause fever. Patients should contact a healthcare specialist if they have a fever with or without other symptoms.
- Fatigue
Patients feel continual fatigue or weakness, often due to the chronic inflammation and malabsorption connected with IBD. It is related to several chronic illnesses. Individuals should improve their sleeping habits and make sure that their bedroom is comfortable.
Causes
The main causes of IBD are unknown. There are some factors which may cause this condition in patients.
- Genetic Factor
It plays an important role in IBD. Patients with a family history of IBD are more likely to develop the condition. Especially with a parent, child, or sibling. There are several genes that have been identified that are linked to these conditions.
2. Environmental Factors
This also contributes to the development of IBD. These factors cause changes in nutritional behavior, consumption of certain preservatives or food additives, and disturbances in the body’s immune system, and the intestinal barrier. Lifestyles involving like:
- Consumption of more ultra-processed food
- Use of oral contraceptives
- Taking NSAIDs
All of these connect and increase IBD risk.
Risk Factors Associated with Intestine Inflammation
Below are some of the factors for inflammatory bowel disease that include:
- Age
- Family history
- Smoking
- NSAIDs
Diagnostic Tests of Intestinal Swelling
A healthcare expert can use a variety of diagnostic methods like blood tests and imaging tests. They can easily find out the type and degree of inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Blood tests
- Stool tests
- Imaging Studies (CT Scans, MRI Scans and X-Rays)
- Endoscopy
- Capsule endoscopy
Different Treatment Options for Intestine Swelling
There are various methods available for treating intestine swelling. Depending on the severity of the condition and its causes, you should always consult with your healthcare professionals. The common treatment approaches are:
1. Medication
Drugs can be taken to treat chronic illnesses, such as IBD. These medicines also decrease the symptoms and side effects. Doctors generally prescribe anti-inflammatory treatments, such as Corticosteroids, Immunomodulators, and Biologic therapies.
2. Nutritional Therapy
This medical care may be a better option to manage symptoms and promote healing of the intestinal lining.
3. Lifestyle Modifications
Patients with IBD can make changes in their lifestyle to get relief from the symptoms. You should avoid many foods, such as spicy foods, dairy, or high-fiber foods. You can consult with a dietitian and identify foods that are dietary triggers. And, they make a personalized nutrition plan also.
4. Surgery
When inflammatory bowel disease conditions become worse or under extreme circumstances, surgery can be the best option. This could improve issues like strictures or blockages, or it might entail removing damaged intestinal sections.
5. Probiotics
By introducing beneficial bacteria into the gut microbiota probiotic through supplements or fermented foods, the inflammation decreases.
6. Immunosuppressive Therapy
In this therapy, a doctor may use medicines to decrease the intestine swelling symptoms and stop the progress of autoimmune disorders, etc.
Conclusion
Intestine swelling symptoms are common and you should consider taking them seriously. You should immediately consult with your healthcare experts. Early intervention and constant monitoring are necessary. It may be related to long-term problems, such as IBD.
There are various effective methods that can reduce its adverse effects and improve general health. Routine checkups and changes in lifestyle habits will make you healthy and stress-free.
