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Ulcerative Colitis Treatment
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory and ulcerative disease of the large intestine (colon). It results in the formation of shallow erosions in the intestinal wall. It is similar to Crohn's disease in that the cause is unknown. Its peak incidence is in patients in their 20's to 30's. Onset of the disease after age 60 seems to be associated with more severe colitis. The typical course of ulcerative colitis includes intermittent "attacks" with periods of complete remission (no symptoms). Common presenting symptoms are rectal bleeding and recurrent bouts of diarrhea. More severe disease is characterized by bouts of fever, abdominal pain, nausea, and more than 6 (bloody) bowel movements a day. Weight loss and low blood counts (anemia) are commonly seen. Evaluation will include history and physical examination. Stools will be tested for presence of occult blood (not visible to the naked eye). A blood count will be performed to look for anemia. Stool cultures will be examined to rule out gastroenteritis. Confirmation of the diagnosis is usually made by colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. This procedure allows direct observation of the inflamed intestinal wall. During colonoscopy, a biopsy (tissue specimen) can be taken and analyzed by the Pathologist. The pathologist's report can confirm the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis.Treatment is with medications that suppress the active inflammation in the colon. Steroid medications have been used successfully to induce a remission in the majority of patients. Gastrointestinal anti-inflammatory medications (Sulfasalazine) have also been used. Iron supplementation is important to maintain the blood count and avoid anemia. Ulcerative colitis patients will often require admission to the hospital to control pain and correct dehydration that can occur with flares of this disease. Surgery is considered for select patients. The Gastroenterologist is be the expert in the care of this chronic disorder.
REMEMBER
Ulcerative colitis patients have 10-30 times the normal risk of developing colon cancer. Needless to say, close medical follow-up with annual colonoscopy is recommended.
Hope this article will provide you informtion about ulcerative colitis.
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