January 8, 2024 Michelle Schmanski

Ileitis: What You Should Know

Ileitis is inflammation that affects the final section of the small intestine called the ileum. The small intestine is crucial to digestion because it absorbs nutrients from digested food. Inflammation in this area can cause discomfort, fatigue, weight loss, and other symptoms. Here’s a breakdown of what causes ileitis, what symptoms you may experience, how it is diagnosed, and what treatment options are available.

What Causes Ileitis?

Inflammation of the ileum can occur for several different reasons. Some common causes include:

1. Infection: Bacterial or viral infections can contribute to inflammation in the ileum and lead to ileitis.
2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn’s disease can cause chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to ileitis.
3. Ischemia: Reduced blood flow to the ileum can cause a condition known as ischemic ileitis. Blood flow to the small intestine can become disrupted due to conditions like blood vessel disease or complications of certain surgeries.
4. Radiation: Certain cancer treatments require radiation, which can lead to inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, including the ileum.
5. Medications: Some medications may cause inflammation in the small intestine.

What Are the Symptoms of Ileitis?

1. Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain or cramping, especially in the lower right abdomen, is a common symptom.
2. Diarrhea: Some people with this inflammation present with diarrhea, especially if their ileitis is caused by inflammatory bowel disease.
3. Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss can occur in people experiencing chronic or severe ileitis.
4. Fatigue: Inflammation in the body can cause fatigue in people with ileitis.
5. Blood in the Stool: Some people may experience blood in their stool.

How Is Ileitis Diagnosed?

Your doctor will typically diagnose ileitis after collecting a medical history, performing a physical exam, and reviewing laboratory tests, imaging studies, and endoscopic procedures. Here is what you need to know about these diagnostic techniques and tests.

1. Medical History and Physical Exam: Your doctor will spend time with you discussing your medical history in detail. They will want to gather information regarding your symptoms and any relevant family history. Your doctor will then perform a physical exam to assess signs such as abdominal pain, tenderness, swelling, or other abnormal findings.
2. Blood Tests: Your doctor may want to order some blood testing to check for signs of inflammation and infection.
3. Stool Testing: A stool sample can be beneficial because it can be analyzed for blood, infection, or other abnormalities.
4. Imaging Studies: Imaging studies provide detailed images of your gastrointestinal tract and can help to identify areas of inflammation that could indicate ileitis.
5. Endoscopic Procedures: Endoscopic procedures like colonoscopy or ileoscopy are used to visualize your colon or ileum directly. Your doctor can also biopsy these areas while these procedures are performed. The tissue removed in the biopsy can then be sent to the lab to be looked at under a microscope to assess for cell changes and inflammation.

What Is the Treatment for Ileitis?

Treatment varies depending on the cause. Common treatments can include:

1. Antibiotics: If the ileitis is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics can clear the inflammation in the ileum.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Medications like corticosteroids and immunomodulators can be used if the inflammation in the ileum is caused by Crohn’s disease or other inflammatory bowel conditions.
3. Lifestyle Changes: In some cases, lifestyle modifications like dietary changes or restrictions may help manage the symptoms of ileitis and promote healing.
4. Surgery: If it is severe or there are complications, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove part of your damaged portions of the intestine.

Talk to A Doctor About Your Ileitis Today

If you suspect you have ileitis or are experiencing unsettling digestive issues, schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist today!

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