Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the colon and rectum, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. This condition can significantly impact daily life, making early diagnosis and effective management crucial.
What Is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum.1 It causes inflammation and ulcers in the inner lining of the colon, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but it’s thought to involve an abnormal immune response in genetically susceptible individuals.
Types of Ulcerative Colitis
Types of ulcerative colitis are categorized based on the location of inflammation in the colon. Ulcerative proctitis is limited to the area closest to the anus (the rectum), often causing rectal bleeding as the primary symptom. Proctosigmoiditis involves inflammation in both the rectum and the sigmoid colon, leading to additional symptoms such as diarrhea, cramping, and urgency. Left-sided colitis, which extends up the left side of the colon, and pancolitis, affecting the entire colon, are other forms of the disease, each presenting with varying levels of severity and symptoms like weight loss, fatigue, and severe abdominal pain.
Signs and Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
Identifying the symptoms of ulcerative colitis early is vital for timely diagnosis and effective management. Here are the most common signs to watch for:
- Abdominal Pain or Cramping: Frequent discomfort or cramping in the lower abdomen, often linked to the location of inflammation in the colon.
- Persistent Diarrhea: Ongoing episodes of diarrhea, which may be accompanied by mucus or pus.
- Blood in Stool: Visible blood in the stool, a hallmark symptom of inflammation in the colon.2
- Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss, often due to reduced absorption of nutrients and appetite.
- Fatigue: Persistent fatigue or feelings of extreme tiredness, even after adequate rest.
- Reduced Appetite: A noticeable decrease in appetite, which may lead to malnutrition and weight loss.
- Urgency to Defecate: A frequent and urgent need to use the restroom, often with little warning.
- Fever: In some cases, a low-grade fever may occur due to inflammation.
These symptoms can vary in severity and frequency, so it’s essential to seek medical advice if you experience any combination of these signs. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.
How Is It Treated?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for ulcerative colitis, but there are several effective treatment methods aimed at managing symptoms and promoting healing. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, improve symptoms, and allow the colon to heal, while also preventing future flare-ups.
Treatment options may include anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressants, and biologic therapies to control the immune system’s response. In addition, dietary changes, such as eliminating trigger foods, can help manage symptoms. In severe cases, where medications fail to provide relief or complications arise, surgery to remove part or all of the colon may be necessary.3 A tailored treatment plan helps individuals lead a healthier life despite the condition.
Learn More About Ulcerative Colitis Today
Living with ulcerative colitis can be challenging, disrupting your daily routine. However, there are strategies to effectively manage the condition. Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional are essential steps in understanding and managing ulcerative colitis.