Pronounced: is-KEY-mik
Ischemia, the noun for ischemic, means a low oxygen state due to inadequate blood flow. Bowel refers to the small and large intestine.
Ischemic bowel disease results from inadequate flow of oxygenated blood to the intestines. The extent of ischemic bowel disease can range from mild to severe based on the amount of damage from lack of oxygenated blood. This is a potentially serious condition and requires care from your doctor. The sooner ischemic bowel disease is treated, the more favorable the outcome. Contact your doctor if you think you may have ischemic bowel disease.
Ischemic bowel disease occurs when an artery that supplies blood becomes blocked or narrowed. There are several possible causes of ischemic bowel disease, including:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. The following factors increase your chances of developing ischemic bowel disease:
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to ischemic bowel disease. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you have the following symptoms, see your physician.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. If ischemic bowel disease is suspected, you will most likely be referred to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment.
Tests may include the following:
Treatment options depend on the severity of the ischemia and include the following:
Bowel rest and intravenous fluids are given in mild cases without significant progressed damage to the bowel.
Antibiotics are administered to minimize infection, which can quickly complicate an ischemic bowel.
In more severe cases, surgery is required to remove the ischemic colon.
To help reduce your chances of developing ischemic bowel disease, take the following steps:
RESOURCES:
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
http://www.asge.org
National Library of Medicine
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
BC Health Guide
http://www.bchealthguide.org
Canadian Association of Gastroenterology (CAG)
http://www.cag-acg.org
References:
Green BT, Tendler DA. Ischemic colitis: A clinical review. Southern Med J . 2005;98:217-222.
Greenwald DA, Brandt LJ, Reinus JF. Ischemic bowel disease in the elderly. Gastroenterol Clin North Am . 2001;30:445-465.
Last reviewed November 2008 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.