Where Is the Pain of Colitis Felt?

Colitis can cause abdominal pain in various regions of the abdomen. The colon consists of several parts, including the rectum, sigmoid colon, descending colon, transverse colon, ascending colon, and extends to the terminal part of the ileum, where the appendix is also located. As a result, pain from colitis can occur in different areas of the abdomen, depending on which part of the colon is affected. The location of the pain is directly related to the segment of the intestine involved. Below are some specific examples:

1. Appendicitis: A classic symptom of appendicitis is migratory pain that starts in the upper abdomen or around the navel and then shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen. Some patients may also experience nausea, vomiting, or discomfort. As the condition progresses, tenderness becomes more pronounced when pressure is applied to the lower right quadrant.

2. Ischemic Colitis: In cases of ischemic colitis, the pain is typically associated with the area of the intestine affected by reduced blood flow. If the right side of the colon is primarily involved, the pain will most likely be felt on the right side of the abdomen and may be more intense in that region.

Understanding the location of the pain can help in identifying the type and severity of colonic inflammation, guiding appropriate medical evaluation and treatment.