What is Ileitis?
Ileitis is an inflammation of the ileum, the final and longest segment of the small intestine. It's a condition that can disrupt the absorption of nutrients and cause significant discomfort.
What Causes Ileitis?
The causes of ileitis can vary. It's commonly associated with Crohn's disease, an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but can also result from infections, autoimmune disorders, medication side effects, and other conditions like Behçet’s disease or endometriosis.
What are the Symptoms of Ileitis?
Symptoms may include right lower abdominal pain, diarrhea (which can be bloody), a feeling of fullness, loss of appetite, and an inability to pass gas. In some cases, ileitis may be asymptomatic and only discovered during routine examinations.
How is Ileitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of ileitis typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy, imaging scans, blood tests, and stool tests to check for inflammation, infection, and other potential underlying conditions.
How is Ileitis Treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For ileitis associated with Crohn's disease, medications like anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologics may be used. Dietary changes and, in severe cases, surgery to remove damaged sections of the intestine may also be necessary.
