Was planning to see classmates at upcoming 20th reunion. now i am hearing my best friend has colitis. what is that?

Colitis ?: Colitis, simply means inflammation of the colon. There are both chronic and acute forms. Acute forms are usually a bacterial or viral infection of the colon and can be treated with antibiotics or simply hydration, but can also be ischemic colitis involving a lack of blood flow to the colon. Ulcerative colitis and crohn's colitis are chronic forms. Surgery may be required in some situations.

Infection: It is an infection or inflammation of the colon. Can be bacterial, viral or autoimmune. First two can be contagious.