Ulcerative Colitis
What is "ulcerative colitis"?
Ulcerative colitis is a condition where inflammation takes place in the lining of the large intestine. Typically, specific ulcers take place along with this inflammation in the lining. Either a portion of the large intestine or the entire large intestine can be affected by ulcerative colitis.
What are the symptoms of ulcerative colitis?
The symptoms of ulcerative colitis include abdominal pain, diarrhea, urgency to move one's bowels and rectal bleeding.
What causes ulcerative colitis?
The causes of ulcerative colitis at this time is unknown. It is felt that an infectious process takes place within the intestines that signal the immune system to become activated. Unfortunately the immune system stays activated longer than it should, and as a result of this activity, causes significant inflammation and even ulcers in the lining of the large intestine.
How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed?
Ulcerative colitis is diagnosed through a range of different imaging techniques. The usual diagnosis is centred on a procedure called a colonoscopy. During this procedure, a camera is inserted into the large intestine, where the lining can be visualized for any inflammatory process or ulcerative change that is taking place. Also, a biopsy is performed for further evaluation of the pathology under the microscope. Along with certain blood tests and an appropriate history and physical examination, one can accurately diagnose ulcerative colitis.
What is the treatment for ulcerative colitis?
The treatment for ulcerative colitis centres around medications that are known as anti-inflammatory medications which are specific for healing inflammation in the lining of the intestines. There are several categories of medications available. Some work in the short-term to decrease inflammation and take the large intestine back into its normal state by inducing remission. There are some medications that are available which prevent long-term inflammation from occurring and keep patients in long-term remission from this disease.
