Why do people with colitis keep losing weight?

Aug 24, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

After my friend got colitis, he rarely went out anymore. When I visited him yesterday, I noticed he had lost a lot of weight and looked so pitiful. I wonder why people with colitis keep losing weight?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhao Haiming
People with colitis tend to become increasingly thin, usually due to decreased appetite and nutrient loss. The clinical symptoms of the aforementioned condition include increased frequency of bowel movements, abdominal pain, and bloating. Patients experience more frequent bowel movements, leading to significant loss of water, nutrients, and electrolytes. Over time, this can result in malnutrition and weight loss. Patients may use medications such as Changyanning tablets or Shenling Baizhu powder to treat the condition and regulate gastrointestinal function.