A couple of questions

What is toxic mega colon?

Toxic megacolon is a term used to express the seriousness of the condition. Toxic megacolon is rare. It's a widening of the large intestine that develops within a few days and can be life-threatening. It can be a complication of inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease).

What is the most common cause of toxic megacolon?

Although inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a common reason for toxic megacolon, other etiologies including infections, inflammation, bowel ischemia, radiation, and certain medications can lead to the development of this condition.

What are the signs of toxic megacolon?

Seek immediate medical help or have someone call 911 if you have severe stomach pain and these symptoms:

  • Frequent diarrhea.
  • Bloody diarrhea.
  • Swelling in your belly.
  • Fever.
  • Rapid heart rate.
  • Signs of shock, such as a weak pulse, cool or clammy skin, dilated eyes, confusion, and rapid or shallow breathing.

Can you recover from toxic megacolon?

As long as your colon doesn't preforate or tear, the survival rate for well-treated toxic megacolon is above 95%. Even if it does tear, the survival rate is around 80%. But some studies show that if you get toxic megacolon once and your doctor treats it without surgery, you're more likely than others to get it again.

Can megacolon be cured?

In most cases, megacolon is reversible. This depends on whether it is possible to treat the underlying cause. In acute and toxic megacolon, the underlying cause can usually be treated or otherwise resolves itself naturally, so dilation of the colon is reversed.

Is megacolon reversible?

Hypertrophic megacolon is often reversible with the early removal of the colonic outflow obstruction. If left untreated, the obstruction will result in progression of the condition to an irreversible dilated megacolon.

Can constipation cause megacolon?

Idiopathic megacolon is a relatively uncommon condition usually associated with slow-transit constipation. Although medical therapy is frequently ineffective, rectal laxatives, gentle enemas, and manual disimpaction can be attempted.

How do you shrink an enlarged colon?

Treatment for inflamed colon

  1. anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids and aminosalicylates.
  2. immunosuppressants.
  3. antibiotics.
  4. anti-diarrheal medications.
  5. supplements, such as iron, calcium, and vitamin D.