How to regain weight lost due to colitis

Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
Updated on October 20, 2024
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If there are symptoms of body wasting due to colitis, treatment should first be directed at the colitis to control the condition.

After controlling the condition, it is possible to reduce symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal pain, which is conducive to the digestion and absorption of nutrients in food and can help enhance physical fitness. Normally, care should be taken not to overeat or drink excessively. It is okay to eat moderate amounts of eggs, meat, and dairy, but be careful not to eat too much at once, as this can aggravate the symptoms of colitis.

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Written by Wang Hui Jie
Gastroenterology
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Difference between colitis and rectal cancer

The differences between proctitis and rectal cancer are that under endoscopy, proctitis can present with patchy congestion, with or without mucus, and unclear vascular patterns. In contrast, rectal cancer can present with a protruding mass, which may have an uneven surface, cauliflower-like changes, and possibly congested erosion, among other conditions. It could also simply be a very superficial lesion, and the texture is often more brittle, possibly involving the entire circumference of the colon, preventing the passage of a colonoscope. Clinically, proctitis may present with symptoms such as increased frequency of bowel movements, incomplete evacuation, and sticky stools that may contain mucus. Rectal cancer, on the other hand, may present with symptoms such as bloody stools, positive fecal occult blood, abdominal pain, etc.

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Written by Wang Zhen Quan
Colorectal Surgery Department
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Symptoms of proctitis

So, what are the common clinical symptoms of proctitis? Since the rectum is close to the anus, the symptoms are primarily manifested as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. Some patients experience alternating constipation and diarrhea. Generally, there is often mucus or blood in the stool, and there is usually a burning sensation in the anus during bowel movements. Additionally, due to the irritation from rectal secretions, eczema and itching around the anus can occur. Diagnosing proctitis is relatively easier compared to diagnosing pancolitis. Diagnosis is usually made through sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy, and sometimes biopsies are needed for confirmation.

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Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
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Can I eat pineapple with colitis?

If you have colitis, try to eat less pineapple, as this food is relatively stimulating. Consuming it can irritate the intestinal mucosa, leading to congestion and edema of the intestinal mucosa, and aggravate colitis. Pineapple also has the effect of moisturizing the intestines and facilitating bowel movements, leading to an increase in the frequency of bowel movements which can worsen colitis. Therefore, patients with chronic colitis should pay attention to a light diet, avoid cold melons and fruits, and avoid fruits like pineapple. Bananas can also lubricate the intestines, leading to an increase in bowel movements, so they should also be avoided. Instead, you can eat some warm, easily digestible, and non-irritating foods to the intestines.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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"Inflammatory changes in the rectum"

Inflammatory changes in the rectum are generally a diagnostic manifestation observed through electronic colonoscopy. Under electronic colonoscopy, these changes are often described as inflammation of the rectum, mainly characterized by congestion, edema, and pinpoint erosion of the rectal mucosa, among others. Generally, the symptoms are not very severe, and many patients who undergo electronic colonoscopy, after taking medications such as polyethylene glycol electrolyte powder for diarrhea, can exhibit inflammatory changes in the rectum. Once inflammatory changes in the rectum occur, it may be considered to treat them by orally administering medications that regulate the gut flora. If the patient presents with symptoms such as urgency, mucus-like stools, or pus and blood in the stools, treatment with sulfasalazine suppositories should be considered, and the specific choice of medication and dosage should be followed according to medical advice. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Gastroenterology
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What will happen if rectitis gets worse?

If proctitis worsens, it should be treated promptly through surgery. Surgical removal can help prevent spread and prolong life. After surgery, it is also necessary to kill cancer cells through radiotherapy and chemotherapy. If proctitis is not properly managed, frequent recurrences can lead to erosion and even ulcers, which can easily become cancerous. Therefore, regular follow-up colonoscopies are essential to monitor changes in the condition and assess whether there is a high or low chance of deterioration. After surgery, attention should also be paid to a bland diet, avoiding irritant foods.