What Are the Treatments for Lymphocytic Colitis?

Lymphocytic colitis is a condition of the colon that involves inflammation and can cause a number of unpleasant side effects. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and can sometimes involve doing nothing at all as lymphoncytic colitis can sometimes clear up on its own.

Anti-Inflammatory Medications

• Anti-inflammatory medications such as mesalamine or sulfasalazine are often used to reduce swelling and are often the first step in treatment.

Steroids

• Steroids can also be used to help with the swelling, but they are often only used to treat a sudden onset of severe diarrhea. There are also side effects associated with long-term steroid use that include bone loss and increased blood pressure.

Anti-Diarrheal Medication

• Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications such as Pepto Bismol are often effective at offering short-term relief.

Immunosuppressive Agents

• Immunosuppressive agents have been shown to reduce inflammation, but these are rarely used.

Surgery

• In cases that have not responded to medication, surgery to remove the colon may be an option. However, surgery is not often recommended as having the condition does not increase the risk of colon cancer.