Ulcerative colitis (UC)

Overview

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that primarily affects the colon and rectum. It leads to chronic inflammation, ulcers, and various gastrointestinal symptoms. Although there’s no known cure, effective treatments can manage symptoms and improve patients’ quality of life.

Types of Ulcerative colitis (UC)

Healthcare providers classify UC based on its location within the colon. Here are the main types:

1. Ulcerative Proctitis:

   • Inflammation is limited to the area closest to the anus (rectum).
   • Symptoms: Rectal bleeding may be the only sign.

2. Proctosigmoiditis:

   • Involves the rectum and sigmoid colon (lower end of the colon).
   • Symptoms: Bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and tenesmus (urge to defecate without relief).

3. Left-Sided Colitis:

   • Extends from the rectum up through the sigmoid and descending portions of the colon.
   • Symptoms: Bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain (usually on the left side), and urgency to defecate.

4. Pancolitis:

   • Affects the entire colon.
   • Symptoms: Severe bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fatigue, and significant weight loss.

Causes of Ulcerative colitis (UC)

The exact cause remains unclear, but several factors contribute:

• Abnormal Immune Response: The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy colon tissue.
• Genetics: Family history plays a role.
• Environmental Factors: Stress, diet, and infections may trigger or exacerbate UC.

Risk Factors of Ulcerative colitis (UC)

Certain factors increase the risk of developing UC:

• Age: Typically begins before age 30, but it can occur at any age.
• Race or Ethnicity: White individuals have the highest risk, but UC can affect any race.

Symptoms of Ulcerative colitis (UC)

Preventions of Ulcerative colitis (UC)

While UC can’t be prevented, consider these measures:

• Dietary Changes: Avoid trigger foods.
• Mild Exercise: Reduces stress and normalizes bowel function.

Diagnosis of Ulcerative colitis (UC)

1. Medical History and Physical Examination:

   • The doctor will ask about your symptoms, family history, and overall health.
   • A thorough physical examination, including a rectal exam, helps assess the extent of inflammation.

2. Laboratory Tests:

   • Stool Tests: To check for blood, infections, and inflammation.
   • Blood Tests: To assess inflammation markers (such as C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate).

3. Endoscopy and Biopsy:

   • Colonoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon to visualize the lining and take biopsies.
   • Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to colonoscopy but examines only the lower part of the colon.

4. Imaging:

   • CT Scan or MRI: To evaluate the extent of inflammation and rule out complications.

Treatment for Ulcerative colitis (UC)

1. Medications:

   • Aminosalicylates: Reduce inflammation in the colon.
   • Corticosteroids: Used during flare-ups to control inflammation.
   • Immunomodulators: Suppress the immune response.
   • Biologics: Target specific molecules involved in inflammation.

2. Lifestyle Modifications:

   • Diet: Avoid trigger foods (individualized based on symptoms).
   • Hydration: Stay well-hydrated.
   • Stress Management: Stress can worsen symptoms.

3. Surgery:

   • If medications fail or complications arise, surgery may be necessary.
   • Colectomy: Removal of the colon and rectum.

When to seek medical attention ?

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Symptoms:

  • Intense abdominal pain.
  • Profuse rectal bleeding.
  • High fever.
  • Rapid weight loss.

• Worsening Symptoms:

  • Persistent diarrhea with blood.
  • Increased urgency to defecate.
  • Fatigue and weakness.