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Home > Educational Information > Ulcerative Colitis [printable version]
WHAT IS ULCERATIVE COLITIS?
Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a disease that causes inflammation and sores, called ulcers, in the top layers of the lining of the large intestine. The inflammation usually occurs in the rectum and lower part of the colon, but it may affect the entire colon. UC rarely affects the small intestine and may also be called colitis, ileitis, or proctitis. The inflammation makes the colon empty frequently, causing diarrhea. Ulcers form in places where the inflammation has killed colon lining cells and may bleed and produce pus and mucus.
WHAT CAUSES ULCERATIVE COLITIS?
The most popular theory is that the body's immune system reacts to a virus or bacterium by causing ongoing inflammation in the intestinal wall. People with UC have abnormalities of the immune system, but it is not known whether these abnormalities are a cause or a result of the disease. UC is not caused by emotional distress or sensitivity to certain foods but these factors may trigger symptoms.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS?
The most common symptoms of UC are abdominal pain and cramps, bloody diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, rectal bleeding, loss of body fluids and nurtients, frequent fever, and nausea. UC may also cause problems such as arthritis, inflammation of the eye, liver disease, osteoporosis, skin rashes, anemia and kidney stones.
HOW IS ULCERATIVE COLITIS DIAGNOSED?
A thorough physical exam and a series of tests may be required for diagnosis. Blood tests or testing of a stool sample may be done to check for anemia which could indicate bleeding in the colon or rectum. The doctor may do a colonscopy to look inside the colon and rectum for inflammation , bleeding or ulcers on the colon wall. During the exam, the doctor may take a tissue sample from the lining of the colon. A barium enema may also be required to allow the doctor a clear view of the colon.
WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR ULCERATIVE COLITIS?
Treatment for UC depends on the seriousness of the disease. Most people are treated with medication. In severe cases, a patient may need surgery to remove the ulcerated area.
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