Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease that causes ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and frequent, urgent bowel movements.
Treatment typically involves anti-inflammatory medications and immunosuppressants. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Ulcerative colitis is considered a serious condition because it is linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.
What is Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the colon and rectum. It causes ulcers in the colon wall, which may ooze mucus and pus. Common symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and severe cramps.
Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
The severity of ulcerative colitis symptoms varies from patient to patient. Common symptoms include:
- Bloody diarrhea.
- Rectal pain.
- Severe abdominal cramps.
- Malnutrition and weight loss. Fatigue and tiredness.
- Frequent bowel movements.
- Anemia.
- Fever.
Types of Ulcerative Colitis
The inflammation can affect parts of the colon and rectum. Therefore, ulcerative colitis can be divided into three main types:
- Distal ulcerative colitis, also known as left-sided ulcerative colitis, occurs in any area between the splenic curvature of the colon (near the spleen) and the distal colon.
- Ulcerative proctitis, characterized by inflammation only in the rectum, the last part of the large intestine. This is considered the mildest type of ulcerative colitis.
- Severe ulcerative colitis, which affects the entire colon. The inflammation begins in the rectum and extends upwards, beyond the splenic curvature of the colon.
What are the causes of ulcerative colitis
The cause of ulcerative colitis is often unknown, but it may be due to an overactive immune system. Other contributing factors include:
- Other immune disorders: Having one type of immune disorder increases the risk of developing other immune disorders, including ulcerative colitis.
- A genetic predisposition to ulcerative colitis increases the risk.
- Exposure of the intestines to bacteria or viruses can trigger the immune system and increase the risk of developing ulcerative colitis.
Treatment for Ulcerative Colitis at Home
Treatment typically involves medications such as 5-aminosalicylate, which is considered the first line of treatment, and corticosteroids to control acute flare-ups. Immunosuppressants may also be prescribed, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Doctors also recommend drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and manage stress and anxiety. They advise reducing fiber, spices, and dairy intake, and eating small, frequent meals instead of large ones.
Medications for Ulcerative Colitis
- Atmosalazine capsules.
- Marsalaz tablets.
- Enemacort injections.
- Nifonal capsules.
- Erbitux vials.
How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed
The doctor relies on knowing the patient's symptoms, taking their family and medical history, and conducting some tests to rule out other gastrointestinal diseases. These tests include:
- Colonoscopy.
- Colon biopsy.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy.
- Stool sample to check for blood, bacteria, or any signs of inflammation.
- Abdominal X-ray or CT scan.
- Specialized antibody tests.
Tips for managing ulcerative colitis
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day instead of a few large meals.
- It is important to drink plenty of water and fluids to prevent dehydration. Avoid drinking carbonated beverages and those containing caffeine.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber, folic acid, and iron to prevent anemia.
- Reduce stress and anxiety.
- Exercise regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and ulcerative colitis
IBS is a non-invasive disorder that does not cause damage to the intestines and is often linked to stress. Ulcerative colitis, on the other hand, is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes ulcers in the lining of the colon.
Can I be completely cured of ulcerative colitis
No, it is not completely curable, but treatments aim to achieve long-term remission.
Is ulcerative colitis contagious
No, it is not contagious and is not transmitted through touch or sexual contact.
Article Summary
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. Common symptoms include severe abdominal pain and cramps, bloody diarrhea, frequent bowel movements, and weight loss.
Its treatment depends on taking medications such as 5-aminosalicylic acid and corticosteroids to control acute attacks and immunosuppressants. It is also recommended to drink sufficient amounts of fluids to compensate the patient for the fluids lost from diarrhea.