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What is it?
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and sores (ulcers) in the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is a chronic condition with flare-ups and periods of remission. The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to involve the immune system, genetics, and environmental triggers.
Ulcerative Colitis Q&A
Signs & Symptoms
Ulcerative colitis can cause:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Diarrhea, often with blood or mucus
- Urgency to have a bowel movement
- Rectal pain or bleeding
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Fever during flare-ups
Symptoms may range from mild to severe and can interfere with daily life.
Diagnosis
At Sonoran Surgical, Dr. Sahai diagnoses ulcerative colitis with:
- Medical history and physical exam, including questions about bowel habits and family history of bowel disease
- Blood tests to check for inflammation and anemia
- Stool tests to rule out infections
- Colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy with biopsy to confirm inflammation and ulceration in the colon
- Imaging tests such as CT or MRI may be used to look for complications
Treatment
Treatment aims to control inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications:
- Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, biologics, or antibiotics
- Dietary and lifestyle changes to help manage flare-ups and maintain remission
- Surgery may be recommended if medications do not work or if severe complications occur. Surgery usually involves removing the colon and rectum (proctocolectomy), sometimes with creation of an ileal pouch to restore bowel function.
If you have ongoing digestive symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, or urgency, contact Sonoran Surgical to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Aalok Sahai or Dr Paul Tender. Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve quality of life and reduce complications.