Ischemic colitis

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Prevention

By Mayo Clinic staff

Since the cause of ischemic colitis isn't always clear, there's no definitive way to prevent the disorder. But the good news is that the majority of those who have it recovers quickly and never has another episode.

Still, it makes sense to avoid a medication that may have caused ischemic colitis in the past. And if you have underlying conditions associated with a risk of ischemic colitis — including heart disease and high blood pressure — make sure you're receiving ongoing treatment. Your doctor may recommend that you:

  • Stop smoking
  • Take cholesterol-lowering medication
  • Control chronic illnesses, such as diabetes
  • Exercise regularly
References
  1. McQuaid KR. Gastrointestinal disorders. In: McPhee SJ, et al. Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment. 49th ed. New York, N.Y: McGraw-Hill; 2010. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=6395. Accessed May 27, 2010.
  2. Stoffel EM, et al. Mesenteric ischemia. In: Greenberger NJ, et al. Current Diagnosis and Treatment: Gastroenterology, Hepatology, & Endoscopy. New York, N.Y: McGraw-Hill; 2009. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=6200589. Accessed May 27, 2010.
  3. Sun MY, et al. Ischemic colitis. Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery. 2007;20:5.
  4. Koutroubakis IE. Ischemic colitis: Clinical practice in diagnosis and treatment. World Journal of Gastroenterology. 2008;14:7302.
  5. Sotiriadis J, et al. Ischemic colitis has a worse prognosis when isolated to the right side of the colon. American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2007;102:2247.
  6. Grubel P, et al. Colonic ischemic. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed May 28, 2010.
DS00794 July 24, 2010

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