Definition:
Ileitis is the inflammation of the small intestine. When not treated, it can lead to peritonitis, a disease in which the small intestine becomes heavily damaged and will need to be replaced.
Diagnosis:
The disease can be diagnosed via medical examination as well as the symptoms showed by the patient.
Treatment:
Once diagnosed, ileitis can be treated by surgery. It will then be followed by antibiotics such as corticosteroids to ensure full recovery of the small intestine, as well as to prevent further complications with the rest of the digestive system. A bland diet is also prescribed to avoid recurrence of the disease, while lots of fluids have to be taken to replenish lost nutrients. Advanced stages of the disease (peritonitis) meanwhile require replacement of the small intestine.
Symptoms and Signs:
Among the symptoms of ileitis are extreme abdominal pain, fever, chills, stomach disorders, diarrhea, and weight loss. The disease is often mistaken for appendicitis due to its location at the lower right area of the abdomen.
Causes:
Ileitis can be a result of various digestive disorders. Stomach ulcers can produce inflammations in the ileum, as well as harmful substances such as alcohol. Overeating can also stress the small intestine leaving it damaged.
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