Ischemic colitis

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Risk factors

By Mayo Clinic staff

Risk factors for ischemic colitis include:

  • Age. The condition occurs with greatest frequency in older adults. If it occurs in a young adult, it may be a sign of a blood-clotting abnormality or an inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis).
  • Heart disease risk factors. The impaired blood flow responsible for ischemic colitis is more likely to occur in people who have traits or conditions commonly associated with heart disease. These include tobacco use, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
  • Certain medical conditions. Some disorders are considered predisposing factors that place you at greater risk of developing ischemic colitis, or they can aggravate it when it occurs. These include previous abdominal operations, heart failure, low blood pressure and shock.

DS00794

July 24, 2008

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