Diagnosis of colitis
Examination
The diagnosis usually begins with an analysis of the patient's complaints, which usually involve abdominal pain and diarrhea. The medical practitioner has to learn about the onset and duration of symptoms that the patient has. It is important to determine if there is blood in the bowel movement since this is typical of colitis or a more serious condition, such as colon cancer. The doctor will need to know the following: the onset of symptoms, the duration of pain, and the frequency of diarrhea.
Laboratory tests
Blood tests will look for potential issues associated with colitis.
- A complete blood count (CBC) assesses the red blood cell count, the white blood cell count, and the number of platelets. The white blood cell counts elevate when the body is undergoing stress including the stress of infection.
- Electrolyte abnormalities may occur with diarrhea.
- Test determinin g the levels of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine.
- Stool samples for bacteria presence.
Colonoscopy and imaging (CT)
Colonoscopy and imaging are essential cancer screening tests, especially important for those patients who have had blood in their stool.