What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis (UC) affects around 700,000 Americans. The long-term illness causes inflammation in the colon and can be quite painful. It can seriously Affect a patient's quality of life. 

Overview 

UC and Crohn's disease are the two major types of inflammatory bowel diseases. While Crohn's occurs in any part of the digestive tract, UC Usually strikes just the inner lining of the large intestine. Most physicians classify UC based on its location in the colon. Symptoms tend to come and go throughout an individual's life. 

Causes and Risk Factors 

The precise cause of UC has eluded researchers. Some believe bacteria or viruses could trigger the disorder. Many blame a faulty immune reaction.

Elevated risk factors exist for individuals who have a family history of the illness, are of a Certain race or ethnicity or are younger than 30, although the disease can occur and any age. Some evidence suggests a possible link to use of isotretinoin, an acne medication. 

Symptoms

Several symptoms are typical. Patients experience more urgency with bowel movements, Which tend to be looser than normal. Persistent diarrhea, bloody stools and abdominal pain are common. Many individuals with ulcerative colitis Roanoke Report cramping, a loss of appetite, fatigue and weight loss. The disorder can Affect a child's physical development. Symptoms tend to flare, then Become quiet. This pattern sometimes makes the disease Difficult to diagnose and treat. 

Diagnosis Diagnosing 

UC starts with ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms. Usually begins with testing a stool sample and blood tests. Radiologic imaging is an important tool for making a diagnosis in patients with suspected ulcerative colitis Roanoke . Radiologists in a hospital or an endoscopy center use colonoscopy to view the entire large intestine via a camera.

While still used, flexible sigmoidoscopy and barium enemas are less common than in past Decades. When a doctor suspects complications Such as a perorated intestine, an X-ray or a CT scan can provide Valuable information. 

Treatment

Two important objectives of treating UC are regulating the immune system and keeping the patient as comfortable as possible. Treatment options include diet and nutrition, medication and surgery. Although food is not a cause of UC, eliminating foods that appear to aggravate the disorder can reduce symptoms. Various medications quell inflammation and tame an overactive immune system. The most common include aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, antibiotics and biologic therapy. Surgery to remove the colon is the only cure for ulcerative colitis. 

Required: Roanoke colitis, ulcerative colitis Roanoke