About Lymphocytic Colitis
The exact cause of lymphocytic colitis is still unknown. However, scientists think that several factors may add to the development:
- Autoimmune conditions: Lymphocytic colitis may be linked with autoimmune disorders, where the immune system attacks the lining of the colon by mistake.
- Medications: Certain medications have been linked to the development of lymphocytic colitis.
- Infections: Infections in the digestive system may play a role in triggering lymphocytic colitis, but no specific germs or bacteria have been identified.
- Genetic factors: Genetics may play a role in both lymphocytic colitis and other immune disorders.
- Age: Lymphocytic colitis is more commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 65.
The most common early symptoms of lymphocytic colitis include:
- Chronic watery diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and cramping
As the condition progresses or becomes more severe, additional symptoms may occur, such as:
- Weight loss
- Nausea
- Dehydration
- Fecal incontinence: Trouble controlling bowel movements, leading to accidental stool leakage
- Bloating
It's important to note that the cause of lymphocytic colitis isn’t fully understood, but factors such as autoimmune conditions, medications, infections, genetics, and issues with bile acid absorption may play a role. Bile acids are substances that help digest fats, but if they aren’t taken in properly in the intestines, they can irritate the colon and may add to symptoms. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or think you may have lymphocytic colitis, it's important to talk with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment.
To diagnose lymphocytic colitis, the following exams, tests, and procedures are commonly performed:
- History and physical exam: Your healthcare provider will get important information about your symptoms or any factors adding to your condition. During a physical exam they will check for pain or tenderness in your lower belly, look for signs of bloating, and check for dehydration (like dry skin or dizziness) from diarrhea. They may also look for any weight loss or signs of poor nutrition if symptoms have lasted awhile
- Lab tests: Your healthcare provider may order lab tests on blood, urine, or tissue samples to help rule out other conditions. The specific tests will depend on your symptoms and the diseases being considered.
- Imaging studies: Your doctor may recommend imaging studies such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) to get a better look inside your body and gather more information about the disease.
- Colonoscopy with biopsies: This involves using a long, flexible tube with a camera (a colonoscope), to look at the lining of the colon. Small tissue samples (biopsies) are taken from different parts of the colon to look at under a microscope.
- Stool sample: Your doctor may take a stool sample to check for germs or other infections that could be causing your symptoms.
Remember that these recommendations may be different depending on each person’s specific situation and it is important to talk with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
The goals of treatment for lymphocytic colitis are to reduce inflammation, control symptoms, and help the person feel better overall. Here are the recommended treatments and how they work:
Medications:
- Antidiarrheal medicines, such as loperamide, can help control symptoms by slowing down diarrhea.
- Additional medications like budesonide and cholestyramine may be prescribed if watery diarrhea continues. These medications work by reducing inflammation in the intestines.
Therapies:
- Removing triggering factors: This involves quitting smoking and stopping any medications that may be triggering symptoms.
Health behavior changes:
- Dietary changes: Staying away from or limiting certain foods and drinks can help control symptoms. These include alcohol, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, milk and milk products (if lactose intolerant), high-fiber foods, and whole wheat bread or rice.
Other treatments:
- Keeping a food journal: This can help identify trigger foods that worsen symptoms.
It's important to note that these recommendations may be different depending on each person. It's best to talk with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.