Doctor's Notes on Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the colon (large bowel or large intestine). Signs and symptoms include inflammation of colon tissue, and it can produce sores and ulcers. It is usually limited to the colon and rarely affects the small intestine, except for the terminal ileum. Common signs and symptoms include
- frequent loose stools (sometimes with blood),
- lower abdominal discomfort and pain,
- fever,
- lethargy,
- appetite loss,
- weight loss,
- bowel incontinence, and
- anemia.
Occasionally, other body organs may be involved (for example, eye problems, joint problems, neck or back pain, skin rashes, liver and bile duct problems, and/or kidney problems).
The cause of ulcerative colitis is not known. Risk factors include
What Are the Treatments for Ulcerative Colitis?
There is no medical treatment cure for ulcerative colitis. Treatments are individualized and designed to give symptom relief and long-term remission in some. However, some surgical procedures may cure the disease, but it is not guaranteed. The following are some of the treatments that may be used alone or in combination:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Corticosteroids
- Oral 5-aminosalicylates
- Immune system suppressors
- Biologics
- Vedolizumab
- Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors like adalimumab
- Ustekinumab
- Other symptom-reducing medications
- Anti-diarrheals
- Pain reducers
- Supplements like vitamins, iron
- Nutrition (diet) therapy
- Surgery may eliminate ulcerative colitis in some individuals.
- Removal of a diseased portion of the GI tract with reconnection
- Ileoanal anastomosis (does not require a waste collection bag)
- Removal of your entire colon and rectum
- Ileal stoma (requires a bag to collect waste)
You and your doctors may decide what treatments are best for your condition.
Ulcerative Colitis : Diet, Symptoms & Treatment Quiz
QuestionUlcerative colitis affects the colon. The colon is also referred to as the...
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REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.