What is the Ulcerative Colitis ?
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon.
What are the symptom of Ulcerative Colitis?
Symptoms of UC can vary in severity and frequency. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent diarrhea: Often bloody.
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Urgency to have a bowel movement
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Rectal bleeding
- Anemia
- Joint pain
- Eye inflammation
Who can suffer from Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis can affect people of all ages, but it most commonly develops in young adults. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
What are the type of Ulcerative Colitis?
· Distal colitis: This type affects only the rectum and lower colon.
· Left-sided colitis: This type affects the left side of the colon, including the descending colon and sigmoid colon.
· Extensive colitis: This type affects the entire colon.
· Pancolitis: This type affects the entire large intestine, including the colon and rectum.
Which diagnostic are available for the Ulcerative Colitis ?
· Colonoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the colon to examine the lining.
· Sigmoidoscopy: This procedure is similar to a colonoscopy but only examines the rectum and sigmoid colon.
· Blood tests: Blood tests can check for inflammation, anemia, and other abnormalities.
· Stool sample: A stool sample can be tested for bacteria or other infections.
What are the treatment of the Ulcerative Colitis?
The goal of treatment for UC is to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include:
- Medications: These can include anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected part of the colon.
Which diet should I take ,if any ?
While there is no specific diet for UC, some people may find that certain foods trigger symptoms. It may be helpful to keep a food diary to identify any triggers. Some people with UC may also benefit from a low-residue diet, which is low in fiber.
Which speciality of the doctor will Ulcerative Colitis?
A gastroenterologist is the specialist who treats ulcerative colitis.
In Ulcerative Colitis completely curable ?
Currently, there is no cure for ulcerative colitis. However, with appropriate treatment, many people with UC can live normal, active lives. Some people may experience periods of remission, where symptoms are under control.
