Also known as “UC,” ulcerative colitis is an irritable bowel disease (IBD) that causes a wide variety of symptoms for the affected individual. The hallmark symptom of ulcerative colitis is the presence of ulcers in the colon, often discovered during a colonoscopy. While there is no end-all be-all “cure” for ulcerative colitis, there are various ways to manage your symptoms.
What Is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease of the colon where the colon becomes inflamed and develops small sores called ulcers, which can cause discomfort and even long-term complications. Ulcerative colitis can become worse over time, which is why it’s important to stay on top of your symptoms.
Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
Recurring constipation and/or diarrhea
Stomach, rectal, and joint pain
Blood in the stool
Loss of weight
Fatigue and/or exhaustion
Fever, vomiting, and chills may occur during infection episodes
Can Ulcerative Colitis Be Healed Completely?
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for irritable bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis. Luckily, there are some treatments that can help your symptoms considerably, improving your quality of life on a daily basis. You will likely still need to avoid triggers like greasy foods, caffeine, and high-fiber foods.
What Are the Most Common Ulcerative Colitis Treatments?
Since UC is an inflammatory disease, treatments often include anti-inflammatory drugs and other drug therapies that target this process: steroids, immunosuppressants, and antidiarrheal medicine. If your colitis has progressed further than these treatments are able to help, your doctor may recommend bowel resection (surgery) to remove damaged tissue.
Colectomy For Ulcerative Colitis
If your symptoms are bad enough, or if your bowel becomes infected and damaged, surgery may be your best option. Since UC is a disease of the colon, removal of the colon often resolves symptoms. However, if your entire colon is removed, you will need a colostomy bag for the rest of your life. For this reason, it’s best to avoid triggers in the early stages of the disease, prolonging your need for a total bowel resection.
How Do I Know If I Have Ulcerative Colitis?
If you suspect that you might have a condition like ulcerative colitis, it’s best to speak with both your primary care doctor and a colorectal specialist. Here at the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay, we specialize in bowel diseases and syndromes like UC; you will be in good hands with our team of experts.