Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It causes long-term inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract, causing discomfort and potentially serious complications. This article is designed to provide a comprehensive look at ulcerative colitis, its symptoms, causes, and available treatment options. If you start looking at the options below, you can find the best deal for you.
Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary greatly depending on the severity of the inflammation and where it occurs. Most people with UC have mild to moderate symptoms. The most common symptoms are abdominal pain and cramping, diarrhea (often with blood or pus), rectal pain, rectal bleeding, an urgent need to have a bowel movement, and an inability to have a bowel movement despite the urge to have a bowel movement.
Other common symptoms include weight loss, fatigue, fever, and night sweats. These symptoms can develop gradually and range from mild to severe. It is not uncommon for people with ulcerative colitis to go through periods of remission where symptoms disappear only to return later.
Less common symptoms
Some people with ulcerative colitis may experience symptoms outside of the digestive tract. These symptoms include joint pain and swelling, eye inflammation, skin problems, mouth ulcers, and anemia. Children with ulcerative colitis may experience growth and developmental delays.
It is important to remember that not all people with ulcerative colitis experience all of these symptoms. If you or someone you know has ongoing digestive problems, it is important to seek medical advice.
Causes of ulcerative colitis
Immune system malfunction
Although the exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, a damaged immune system is thought to play a major role. Normally, the immune system protects your body from pathogens. However, in people with ulcerative colitis, the immune system mistakenly attacks cells in the digestive tract, causing inflammation and ulcers.
This immune response can be triggered by certain environmental factors, such as bacterial or viral infections. Certain genetic factors may also make some people more susceptible to this immune system malfunction.
Diet and stress
While diet and stress were once thought to be the main causes of ulcerative colitis, researchers now believe that these factors make the disease worse, but do not cause it. However, identifying and managing dietary triggers and stress can help relieve ulcerative colitis symptoms.
It is important to note that everyone is different, and what triggers symptoms in one person may not affect another. Keeping a food and symptom diary can help identify possible triggers.
Treatment Options for Ulcerative Colitis
Medications
The goal of treating ulcerative colitis is to reduce the inflammation that triggers symptoms. In the best cases, this not only relieves symptoms, but also provides long-term relief and reduces the risk of complications. The most common types of medications used to treat ulcerative colitis are anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressants, and biologics.
Anti-inflammatory drugs are usually the first step in treatment. These include aminosalicylates and corticosteroids. Immune system suppressants work by reducing the immune response that triggers inflammation. Biologics are a newer type of treatment that targets specific proteins involved in the inflammatory process.
Surgery
If medications do not provide enough relief or if severe complications occur, surgery may be an option. This surgery usually involves removing the entire colon and rectum (proctocolectomy). After surgery, most people are symptom-free and can lead a normal life.
However, surgery is often considered a last resort because of potential complications and the impact on quality of life. It's important to discuss all treatment options with your doctor so that the best decision can be made for your individual situation.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes
While diet and lifestyle changes cannot cure ulcerative colitis, they can help relieve symptoms and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. This may include identifying and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms, eating smaller meals, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly.
Stress management techniques such as relaxation and breathing exercises can also help relieve symptoms. Getting enough sleep is also important, as fatigue can make symptoms worse.
Living with ulcerative colitis can be challenging, but with proper treatment and lifestyle changes, most people with ulcerative colitis can lead full, active lives. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice and treatment options.
