There are several main types of colitis, each with its own characteristics and causes: 1. Ulcerative colitis: A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers in the intestinal lining. 2. Pseudomembranous colitis: Usually caused by an overgrowth of the bacterium Clostridium difficile, it results in inflammation and the formation of a pseudo membrane in the colon. 3. Ischemic colitis: Caused by reduced blood flow to the colon, often due to narrowed or blocked blood vessels. It can lead to tissue damage and inflammation. 4. Microscopic colitis: A condition where inflammation occurs in the colon, but it is not visible during colonoscopy. It includes two subtypes: collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis. 5. Allergic colitis: Primarily affects infants and is usually due to an allergic reaction to certain proteins in breast milk or formula. It can cause inflammation and ulcers in the colon. Each type of colitis has distinct causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches, so it is important to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management from a healthcare professional.