Understanding Ulcerative Colitis: A Comprehensive Overview

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum. The condition causes inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract's innermost lining.

Key Symptoms

• Diarrhea, often with blood or pus
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Rectal pain and bleeding
• Urgency to defecate
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever

Disease Characteristics

• Pattern: Symptoms typically come and go
• Location: Affects the colon and rectum continuously
• Severity: Can range from mild to severe

Risk Factors

• Age: Usually develops before 30
• Family history
• Ethnicity (more common in white people)
• Environmental factors

Diagnosis

• Colonoscopy
• Blood tests
• Stool samples
• Imaging studies

Treatment Options

1. Medications:

   • Anti-inflammatory drugs
   • Immunosuppressants
   • Biologics
   • Antibiotics

2. Lifestyle Changes:

   • Dietary modifications
   • Stress management
   • Regular exercise
   • Smoking cessation

3. Surgery (if necessary):

   • Removal of colon and rectum
   • J-pouch surgery

Living with UC

• Regular medical check-ups
• Maintaining medication schedule
• Identifying trigger foods
• Building a support network

When to Seek Medical Care

• Severe abdominal pain
• Heavy diarrhea
• Significant bleeding
• High fever
• Severe dehydration