Ischemic colitis history and symptoms

Ischemic colitis is characterized by abdominal pain which is out of proportion to physical findings. There is a sudden onset of crampy abdominal pain, diarrhea, and an urge to defecate. The pain is mild, located over the affected bowel, and usually to the left side of the lower abdomen. Mild rectal bleeding is noticed within 24 hours which may be bright red or maroon mixed with the stools.

The history and symptoms of ischemic colitis are as follows:^{[1][2][3][4][5]}

• Sudden onset of crampy abdominal pain, diarrhea, and an urge to defecate
  • The pain is mild, located over the affected bowel, usually to the left side of the lower abdomen
  • Mild rectal bleeding within 24 hours
• The blood may be bright red or maroon mixed with the stools
• Rectal bleeding is minimal
• Hematochezia with hemodynamic instability suggests a different diagnosis
• Associated ileus may be manifested by anorexia, nausea and vomiting

• Symptoms of ischemic colitis vary depending on the severity of the ischemia
• The most common early signs of ischemic colitis include abdominal pain (often left-sided), with mild to moderate amounts of rectal bleeding
• The sensitivity of findings among 73 patients were as follows:
  • Abdominal pain: 78% of patients
  • Lower digestive bleeding: 62% of patients
  • Diarrhea: 38% of patients
  • Fever: Higher than 100.4°F (38°C) in 34% of patients

• Chills / rigors
• Cachexia

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