Early symptoms of left-sided colitis

Jun 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My grandfather has recently been experiencing increased bowel movements. After a hospital examination, it was diagnosed as caused by left-sided colitis. What are the early symptoms of left-sided colitis?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Jingxiang
The early symptoms of left-sided colitis mainly include the following: 1. Abdominal pain: Patients often experience pain or discomfort in the lower left abdomen, which may be intermittent or persistent. 2. Diarrhea: There is a noticeable increase in bowel movements, with stools being watery or loose, sometimes accompanied by tenesmus (a feeling of incomplete defecation). 3. Rectal bleeding: Bright red blood may be observed in the stool, and the amount of bleeding varies depending on the severity of the condition. These symptoms are typically caused by inflammation-induced damage to the colonic mucosa. The inflammation may also lead to intestinal congestion, edema, and spasms, contributing to the aforementioned symptoms. If early signs of left-sided colitis appear, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for professional evaluation and treatment to prevent further progression of the disease.