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Contents
  • Common Risk Factors
  • Lifestyle and Environmental Influences
  • Genetic and Hereditary Factors

Are You at Risk for Colonic Ischemia?

Are You at Risk for Colonic Ischemia?

The Big Picture

Understanding the risk factors for colonic ischemia can help you take steps to protect your health.
Contents
  • Common Risk Factors
  • Lifestyle and Environmental Influences
  • Genetic and Hereditary Factors

Common Risk Factors

Several common risk factors are associated with colonic ischemia. Advanced age, heart conditions like myocardial infarction, and chronic diseases such as diabetes increase the risk. Certain medications and surgical procedures can also contribute, making it important to be aware of these potential triggers.

Lifestyle and Environmental Influences

Lifestyle choices and environmental factors play a significant role in colonic ischemia risk. Extreme exercise and dehydration are known triggers. Additionally, severe infections like COVID-19 can lead to ischemia, highlighting the importance of maintaining overall health and hydration.
Colonic ischemia occurs when there is reduced blood flow to the colon, leading to inflammation and injury. Common risk factors include advanced age, heart conditions, diabetes, and dehydration.

Genetic and Hereditary Factors

While less common, genetic factors can predispose some individuals to colonic ischemia. Conditions like Factor V Leiden mutation are known to increase the risk. It is essential to discuss family history with a healthcare provider to understand personal risk better.

FAQs

What increases the risk of colonic ischemia?

Advanced age, heart disease, and certain medications increase risk.

Can exercise affect risk?

Yes, extreme exercise can be a risk factor.

Are there genetic risks?

Yes, genetic factors like Factor V Leiden can increase risk.

Is COVID-19 a risk factor?

Yes, severe COVID-19 infection can lead to ischemia.

Did you know dehydration affects risk?

Yes, dehydration is a known trigger for ischemia.

Wrapping Up

Being aware of and managing risk factors is key to preventing colonic ischemia.
Talk to Doctronic about assessing your risk for colonic ischemia.
Additional References
  1. Chang L, Kahler KH, Sarawate C, et al. Assessment of potential risk factors associated with ischaemic colitis. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2008; 20:36.
  2. Midian-Singh R, Polen A, Durishin C, et al. Ischemic colitis revisited: a prospective study identifying hypercoagulability as a risk factor. South Med J 2004; 97:120.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.