Intestinal inflammation occurs when the lining of the intestines becomes irritated and swollen. This condition can affect the small and large intestines, disrupting their normal functions like digestion and nutrient absorption. It represents the body’s reaction to various internal or external triggers.
Recognizing the Signs
Abdominal pain and cramping are common indicators of intestinal inflammation. This discomfort can vary in intensity and location, presenting as persistent aches or sharp, intermittent cramps. Changes in bowel habits are also frequently observed, including diarrhea, which may be frequent, urgent, or contain mucus or blood. Some individuals may experience constipation, or an alternating pattern of both.
Blood in the stool is a notable symptom, appearing as bright red or dark, tarry stools. Unexplained weight loss can occur, often from chronic inflammation interfering with nutrient absorption. Persistent fatigue also frequently accompanies intestinal inflammation.
Other signs include a low-grade fever and a reduced appetite. Nausea and vomiting may also be present. These symptoms can fluctuate, with periods of increased intensity, known as flare-ups, followed by periods of remission.
Common Causes
Intestinal inflammation can stem from several factors, including autoimmune conditions. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, involves the immune system attacking healthy bowel tissue. Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, while ulcerative colitis primarily impacts the colon and rectum.
Infections are another frequent cause. These can be bacterial (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli, often transmitted through contaminated food or water), viral (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus), or parasitic (e.g., Giardia).
Certain medications, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), have been linked to gut irritation. Conditions like celiac disease (an immune reaction to gluten) or other food sensitivities can also induce inflammation. Ischemic colitis (reduced blood flow to the colon) and diverticulitis (inflammation of small pouches in the colon) are further potential causes.
Medical Diagnosis
Diagnosing intestinal inflammation involves a combination of tests to identify its presence, location, and cause. A physical examination and a review of symptoms and medical history are initial steps. Blood tests detect inflammation markers (e.g., C-reactive protein, ESR) and check for anemia.
Stool tests identify markers like fecal calprotectin, indicating gut inflammation. They also rule out infections by checking for bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and detect microscopic blood. Imaging studies (CT, MRI) provide detailed views of the intestines, revealing inflammation or complications.
Endoscopic procedures offer a direct view of the digestive tract. A colonoscopy examines the entire colon and allows for biopsies. An upper endoscopy examines the upper digestive tract, while capsule endoscopy uses a tiny camera to visualize the small intestine. These tests confirm inflammation and distinguish between conditions.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or concerning digestive symptoms. Ongoing abdominal pain that does not improve or worsens warrants medical evaluation. Chronic changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea lasting more than a few days or weeks, or persistent constipation, also require medical attention.
Blood in the stool, whether bright red or dark and tarry, requires immediate medical attention. Unexplained weight loss, especially with other digestive symptoms, should be investigated. Additionally, if you experience a persistent fever, severe nausea, vomiting, or intense abdominal pain that is not relieved, seek prompt medical care.