When to Visit a Specialist at KIMS-Sunshine Hospitals?

Managing colitis on your own can be challenging, but knowing when to seek professional help is crucial for your health and well-being. Here are key signs that it might be time to schedule a visit to a Colitis Specialist:

1. Persistent Symptoms: If you’ve been experiencing symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhoea, or fatigue for more than a few days without relief, it’s time to consult a doctor. Don’t wait until it becomes unmanageable.

2. Severe Pain: Sharp or severe abdominal pain is a red flag. Colitis can sometimes cause intense discomfort that requires immediate medical attention. Don’t push through the pain—let a healthcare professional evaluate your condition.

3. Blood in Stool: Noticing blood in your stool is always a cause for concern. While it might be related to colitis, it’s essential to rule out other serious conditions. Contact your doctor immediately if you see blood.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss: Severe diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous if left untreated. Signs of dehydration include dizziness, dark urine, and feeling lightheaded. If you’re struggling to stay hydrated, seek medical advice.

5. Dehydration: Losing weight without trying can indicate that your colitis is affecting your body more than you realise. It’s crucial to understand why this is happening and get appropriate treatment.

6. Difficulty Managing Symptoms: If your current treatment plan isn’t controlling your symptoms as effectively as it used to, it’s time to reassess. Your doctor can help adjust your treatment or explore new options.

7. New or Worsening Symptoms: Any new or worsening symptoms, such as fever, joint pain, or skin rashes, should be reported to your doctor. These could be signs of complications or a flare-up that needs attention.

Your health is your top priority. If you’re experiencing any of these signs or if something just doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and make an appointment with your doctor. Early intervention can make all the difference in managing your colitis effectively.

Treating colitis requires a multidisciplinary approach involving various specialists and departments to ensure comprehensive and effective care. Here’s an overview of the key doctors and departments involved in managing colitis:

Gastroenterologists: Gastroenterologists are the primary specialists who diagnose and treat colitis. They have specialised training in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and are skilled in performing diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopy and endoscopy. Gastroenterologists prescribe medications, develop long-term management plans, and monitor the disease’s progression through regular follow-ups. They play a crucial role in both acute and chronic management of colitis.

Surgeons: General surgeons, and in particular colorectal surgeons, are involved when surgical intervention is necessary. For patients with severe colitis who do not respond to medical therapy, or who develop complications such as bowel perforation, strictures, or abscesses, surgery may be required. Procedures like colectomy (removal of the colon) are often performed by these specialists. They also handle surgeries related to ileoanal pouch creation or ostomy care, providing critical support for patients needing surgical solutions.

Radiologists: Radiologists assist in diagnosing colitis through imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans. These imaging techniques help visualise the extent of inflammation and identify complications such as bowel obstructions, perforations, or abscesses. Interventional radiologists may also perform procedures like draining abscesses or placing stents under imaging guidance, offering minimally invasive alternatives to surgery.

Pathologists: Pathologists analyse tissue samples obtained during endoscopic procedures. Their expertise is crucial in distinguishing between different types of colitis, such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, or infectious colitis. Accurate histopathological diagnosis helps tailor the treatment plan to the specific type and severity of the colitis.