Ulcerative Colitis

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that primarily affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the inner lining of the colon, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary in severity and may include:

Abdominal Pain: Crampy or sharp pain in the lower abdomen, often associated with bowel movements.

Diarrhea: Frequent, watery stools, which may contain blood or mucus.

Rectal Bleeding: Presence of blood in the stool or on toilet paper.

Urgency to Defecate: A frequent, urgent need to have bowel movements.

Weight Loss: Unintended weight loss due to decreased appetite and malabsorption of nutrients.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development:

Genetics: A family history of ulcerative colitis or other autoimmune diseases may increase the risk.

Immune System Dysfunction: An abnormal immune response may trigger inflammation in the colon.

Environmental Factors: Certain environmental factors, such as diet or infections, might contribute to the onset of the disease.

Diagnosing Ulcerative Colitis

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests:

Blood Tests: To check for signs of anemia, inflammation, and infection.

Stool Tests: To rule out infections and assess inflammation.

Colonoscopy: An endoscopic procedure to visualize the colon and obtain biopsy samples for further examination.

Imaging Tests: Such as CT or MRI scans, to assess the extent of inflammation and rule out other conditions.

Treatment for Ulcerative Colitis

Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life. Options include:

Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologics to control inflammation and symptoms.

Dietary Changes: Adjustments to avoid trigger foods and ensure adequate nutrition.

Enemas and Suppositories: Local treatments to reduce inflammation in the rectum and lower colon.

Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options such as colectomy may be considered to remove the affected parts of the colon.

What Happens If Left Untreated?

If ulcerative colitis is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as severe dehydration, persistent bleeding, increased risk of colon cancer, and significant impacts on overall health and quality of life. Chronic inflammation can also result in other health problems, including joint pain and liver disease.

Schedule a Consultation

If you suspect you have ulcerative colitis or are experiencing related symptoms, it’s important to seek professional medical advice. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists to discuss your symptoms, receive a proper diagnosis, and explore appropriate treatment options.

Calculate Your BMI

Enter your height and weight below to see your Body Mass Index

BMI

Practice Locations