Ulcerative Colitis:
What is ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a long-term condition that causes inflammation and open sores, called ulcers, in the lining of the rectum and colon. Ulcers form in the locations where inflammation has killed the cells that normally line the color. Once the ulcers form, they begin to bleed and produce pus. The inflammation also causes the colon to empty itself frequently, leading to diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis is known as an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which is the disease that causes inflammation of the colon and the small intestine.
Ulcerative colitis can occur in persons of any age, but is more common in persons between the ages of 15 and 30. It affects men and women equally and typically runs in families. Studies indicate a higher incidence of ulcerative colitis is seen in Caucasians and persons of Jewish descent.
Causes of ulcerative colitis:
The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown; however, many theories exist. Persons with ulcerative colitis have abnormalities of their immune system, but it is not known if these abnormalities are a cause or a result of ulcerative colitis. Researchers do know that ulcerative colitis is not caused by the consumption of particular foods or by psychosocial factors. The stress of living with ulcerative colitis may exacerbate the symptoms.
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis:
The most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis are abdominal pain and blood diarrhea. Other symptoms may include:
- Anemia
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Pus in stool
- Rectal bleeding
- Loss of body fluids and nutrients
- Joint pain
- Skin lesions
- Eye inflammation
- Fever
- Growth failure (particularly in children)
How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed?
There are many tests that can be used to diagnose ulcerative colitis. Common diagnostic tools include: a blood test to check for anemia, a stool sample to detect bleeding and to look at the white blood cells, a colonoscopy which may also include a biopsy, and sometimes an x-ray. All of these tools may be used by a physician to diagnose ulcerative colitis and its nature.
Treatment options:
Treatment for ulcerative colitis is focused on decreasing inflammation, relieving symptoms, and preventing further complications. The most common treatments are medication (drug therapy) and surgery.
Related information:
| University of Missouri Health Care | This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. |
