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Ischemic colitis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Definition:

Ischemic colitis involves an area of inflammation (irritation and swelling) caused by interference with the blood flow to the colon (large intestine).

Alternative Names:

Colonic ischemia

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Interference with blood flow to the colon is the cause of ischemic colitis. The disorder mainly affects people over 50, many of whom have a history of peripheral vascular disease . Other risk factors include:

• Previous aortic surgery with unintentional damage to the artery supplying the colon
• History of stroke
• Low blood pressure
• Congestive heart failure  
• Diabetes  
• Abdominal radiation exposure

• Review Date: 5/4/2006
• Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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