Ulcerative

Ulcerative Colitis - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic, long-term inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affecting the innermost lining of the large intestine and rectum. Thought the exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, experts have identified certain factors that may be responsible for triggering the disease and causing its symptoms.

Causes

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, although several factors may be involved, such as genetics, environmental factors, and changes in the immune system. It’s thought that bacteria and viruses can cause the body’s immune system to attack and destroy healthy tissue in the intestinal lining, leading to the inflammation of ulcerative colitis.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea and blood in the stool
• Urgency to have a bowel movement
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Anemia
• Dehydration

Treatments

Several treatments are available to help manage the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Medications, often corticosteroids and aminosalicylates, are available to reduce inflammation and loosen and thin mucus and stool. Surgery may also be necessary if the disease has caused significant damage to the intestinal lining.

Although there is no cure for ulcerative colitis, lifestyle changes can help reduce some of the symptoms. Eating a healthy diet and limiting certain foods that can trigger symptoms is important. Reducing stress levels and increasing physical activity may also help manage the condition.