Proctosigmoiditis is a type of ulcerative colitis that involves inflammation in the large intestine. It is unclear what causes proctosigmoiditis.
Keep reading to learn more about some possible causes, risk factors, and treatments of proctosigmoiditis.
Proctosigmoiditis is a form of ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease. Symptoms are a result of inflammation in the large intestines. It is not clear what causes this inflammation, but several factors could play a role.
For example, an overactive immune system
Ulcerative colitis also tends to run in families, so a person’s genes are another possible reason why proctosigmoiditis may develop.
Environmental factors can also increase the risk of proctosigmoiditis, including:
- oral contraceptives
- antibiotic medications
- high fat diet.
People with proctosigmoiditis could experience complications that include:
- Rectal bleeding: This occurs when ulcers in the rectum open up, causing bleeding.
- Anemia: Blood loss from rectal bleeding can lead to anemia. This is a condition in which the body lacks enough red blood cells to function normally.
- Dehydration: The large intestines may become unable to absorb fluids properly, which can cause dehydration.
- Malabsorption and nutrient deficiencies: The large intestines can also stop fully absorbing nutrients. Over time, this can lead to nutrient deficiencies.
- Megacolon: This is where inflammation reaches deeper layers of the large intestines. It can be life threatening and require immediate treatment.
- Cancer: People with ulcerative colitis may be more likely to develop colon cancer. Several
studies show that the risk increases over time. For example, someone with the condition for 10 years has around a 2% greater risk, but after 30 years, it increases to around 18%.
Possible risk factors for proctosigmoiditis
- having a family history of inflammatory bowel disease
- smoking
- being between 15–30 years old or over 60 years
- being of Ashkenazi Jewish descent
It is worth seeing a doctor if a person is experiencing diarrhea that lasts longer than a couple of days. This is particularly important if diarrhea occurs with bleeding, fever, or severe stomach pain.
A medical evaluation will involve a thorough discussion of a person’s medical history, family history, symptoms, and physical exam.
Further testing will likely involve a colonoscopy. This involves feeding a long, flexible camera through the rectum into the large intestines. Doctors may also suggest other tests, such as blood or stool tests.
Proctosigmoiditis is a type of ulcerative colitis that affects the rectum and large intestines.
It may be the result of an overactive immune system, genetics, or environmental factors. People with a family history of the condition face a higher risk of developing it themselves.
While it is a lifelong condition, several types of medication are available for treating symptoms. In the most severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Complications can range from rectal bleeding to a higher risk of colon cancer, so if a person suspects they may have the condition, they should speak to a doctor.