Ulcerative Colitis Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Individuals who experience such alarming symptoms as bloody stools and abdominal pain sometimes leap to the misguided conclusion that they have colon cancer. In many cases, however, they have a less immediately threatening but extremely uncomfortable condition known as ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis belongs the family of inflammatory bowel diseases alongside Chron's and IBS, but it has its own distinct set of symptoms that differentiate it from these other ailments. fortunately, patients with ulcerative colitis Roanoke or other major U.S. cities can receive specialized medical care to help relieve their distress.

True to its name, ulcerative colitis involves the chronic formation of ulcers within the colon, or bowel. (The limitation of symptoms to this part of the large intestine sets it apart from Chron's disease, in which inflammation may occur throughout the digestive tract.) The ulceration is triggered by the body's own defense mechanism, the immune system. This system normally wards off invading viruses and bacteria, but in people with ulcerative colitis it also mistakenly attacks food particles or non-harmful intestinal microorganisms. The resulting inflammation accompanies the development of sores that emit mucous and pus. Patients typically suffer from diarrhea, rectal pain, chronic abdominal cramps, and frequent, often bloody stools. They may also feel the need to make frequent trips to the restroom. Severe blood loss from long-term bouts of ulcerative colitis may put some individuals at risk for anemia, or low red blood cell count. Other possible complications include osteoporosis, dehydration, liver problems, a perforated colon, and a heightened risk for colon cancer.

Cases of ulcerative colitis in Roanoke and other cities can be confirmed through a variety of diagnostic tests. Colonoscopy, an endoscopic technique involving the viewing of the colon's interior through a long tube that contains a tiny camera, is one such method. Blood tests and digital imaging have also been used to identify the presence of telltale ulcers, anemia, and other markers of the disease.

Treatment of ulcerative colitis is aimed at reducing the severity of the symptoms, there is presently no known cure for the condition. Anti-inflammatory and immune-suppressant drugs are commonly prescribed to control the condition. Physicians may also prescribe lifestyle adjustments and remedies such as smaller meals, vitamin supplements, and avoidance of certain foods such as dairy items and high-fiber products.