Over time, the wall can tear, or perforate, allowing bacteria and other infectious substances to leak from the intestine into the abdomen. The medical term for this is peritonitis.
A perforated colon is a medical emergency. A person needs surgery to repair the hole in the intestine. Toxic megacolon is a rare but life-threatening complication of IBD.
Toxic megacolon occurs when inflammation causes the colon to expand to such an extent that it cannot contract. The result is a buildup of gas. The buildup can cause the colon to burst, leaking harmful bacteria and toxins into the bloodstream. This can lead to a range of life-threatening complications , including:. Recognizing indications of toxic megacolon and receiving prompt treatment can reduce the risk of life-threatening complications.
However, for most people with the disease, the risk of developing these problems is very small. Spotting the symptoms early and receiving prompt treatment can increase the likelihood of recovery. Read the article in Spanish. Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that can affect any part of the gut. Learn more about Crohn's disease here. Some medical professionals describe Crohn's disease as an autoimmune condition, but others have doubts about using this term.
Learn more. Using certain supplements may help people with Crohn's disease treat or prevent nutritional deficiencies. Learn more about supplements for Crohn's…. When these tunnels form, fluid from your stomach or gastrointestinal GI tract can escape to other parts of your body, into other organs, or into your abdominal cavity. This can lead to a fatal infection called sepsis.
It can also cause malnutrition , which occurs when your body does not absorb the nutrients it needs in your GI tract. Over time, a lack of proper nutrition can be life threatening. Chronic inflammation can also cause scar tissue throughout your GI tract. This can lead to narrowing, or strictures , in your intestine. This may make it difficult for stool to pass. Over time, this can also lead to a complete obstruction, which may cause a tear in your colon.
Emergency treatment is necessary to prevent a fatal infection, or sepsis. These complications include:. Over time, these weak points may tear, or perforate. This will allow bacteria and other substances from your intestines to spill out into your abdomen. This can lead to a type of infection called peritonitis. If peritonitis is left untreated or not treated properly, it can lead to sepsis or blood poisoning.
These are both life threatening conditions. If malnutrition becomes severe, some patients may require enteral by means of a tube or parenteral intravenous feeding. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics. Health Tools.
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