Ischemic colitis and mesenteric ischemia are both types of bowel ischemia. Ischemic colitis refers to reduced blood flow to the large intestine, while mesenteric ischemia happens due to reduced blood flow to the small intestine.

Ischemic colitis happens when something temporarily reduces blood flow to the large intestine. Experts believe that it can happen as a result of small vessel atherosclerosis in the blood vessels supplying blood flow to the large intestine. Often this occurs in combination with poor heart function or sepsis.

Mesenteric ischemia can be acute or chronic. Chronic mesenteric ischemia is caused by peripheral vascular disease, which happens due to the narrowing of the arteries. The condition can worsen over time.

Acute mesenteric ischemia is the sudden reduction of blood flow to the small intestine. This can happen due to a blood clot, or embolism. It is often life threatening.

Both conditions are more common in older adults.

Symptoms of ischemic colitis can include pain in the lower left abdomen and rectal bleeding.

Chronic mesenteric ischemia can cause symptoms such as:

Acute mesenteric ischemia symptoms can include:

The main treatments for ischemic colitis include:

In rare cases, a medical professional may recommend surgery.

Treatments for chronic mesenteric ischemia can depend on the severity of symptoms, but may include:

  • antiplatelet therapy
  • smoking cessation, where applicable
  • surgical or endovascular revascularization to restore blood flow

In cases of acute mesenteric ischemia, medical professionals may begin by administering IV fluids and correcting electrolyte imbalances.

The individual will also receive antibiotics before surgery. Surgery can help assess the level of ischemia and restore blood flow.

It is important to seek medical advice as soon as there are concerns about bowel ischemia. Acute mesenteric ischemia, in particular, has a high mortality rate. Receiving an accurate diagnosis and treatment as early as possible may help to improve the outlook.