What is Ulcerative Colitis? Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment Explained
What is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract, often leading to abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.
Unlike other types of IBD, UC typically begins in the rectum and may spread upward in a continuous pattern through the colon. This disease can affect people of all ages but is usually diagnosed in individuals between 15 and 30 years old.
Types of Ulcerative Colitis
- Ulcerative Proctitis: Affects only the rectum. Mildest form. Common symptoms: rectal bleeding and urgency.
- Proctosigmoiditis: Involves the rectum and sigmoid colon. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, cramps, and urge to defecate.
- Left-sided Colitis: Inflammation extends from the rectum up through the left colon. Symptoms include weight loss, left-side abdominal pain, and bloody diarrhea.
- Pancolitis: Affects the entire colon. Symptoms are more severe and include fatigue, weight loss, and intense abdominal pain.
- Fulminant Colitis: Rare but severe form. Can lead to life-threatening complications such as colon rupture.
Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
- Persistent diarrhea with blood or pus
- Abdominal cramping and pain
- Urgency to defecate
- Rectal bleeding
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Anemia (due to blood loss)
Causes of Ulcerative Colitis
The exact cause of UC is not fully understood, but contributing factors may include:
- Immune System Dysfunction: The immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy tissues of the colon.
- Genetics: A family history of ulcerative colitis increases your risk.
- Environmental Factors: Diet, stress, and other lifestyle factors might trigger or worsen the condition.
- Gut Microbiome Imbalance: Disruption in gut bacteria may play a role in inflammation.
Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis
- Colonoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy: Visual examination of the colon using a camera to detect inflammation and ulcers.
- Stool Tests: To rule out infections and detect inflammation markers.
- Blood Tests: To check for anemia and signs of infection or inflammation.
- Imaging Tests: CT scans or MRI to assess inflammation and rule out other conditions.
Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and maintain remission.
1. Medications
- Anti-inflammatory drugs: Mesalamine, Sulfasalazine
- Corticosteroids: Prednisone (for flare-ups)
- Immunosuppressants: Azathioprine, Cyclosporine
- Biologics: Infliximab, Adalimumab
- JAK inhibitors: Tofacitinib
2. Lifestyle & Diet
- Low-fiber, high-protein diets
- Avoid trigger foods like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods
- Stay hydrated
3. Surgery
- In severe cases, removal of the colon (colectomy) may be required.
- Often followed by ileostomy or ileoanal pouch creation.
FAQs about Ulcerative Colitis
- Q1: Is ulcerative colitis curable?
- No, but it can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes.
- Q2: What foods should I avoid with UC?
- Avoid high-fiber, greasy, spicy, and dairy-rich foods during flare-ups.
- Q3: Can stress worsen UC symptoms?
- Yes, stress can trigger or worsen UC flare-ups.
- Q4: Is UC life-threatening?
- In rare cases, severe UC can lead to complications like colon rupture or cancer.
- Q5: Can I lead a normal life with UC?
- Yes, with proper treatment and monitoring, many people live healthy lives.
Conclusion
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic but manageable condition that requires proper medical attention and lifestyle adjustments. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are key to improving the quality of life and preventing serious complications. If you experience symptoms like bloody diarrhea, persistent cramps, or fatigue, consult a gastroenterologist for proper evaluation and treatment.
