Ulcerative Colitis - What It Is And How Best To Treat It
Ulcerative colitis is generally an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The IBD causes lasting sores (ulcers) and inflammation within different parts of the digestive tract. Ulcerative colitis majorly affects the innermost part of the colon and rectum. For an infected individual, symptoms will gradually develop as opposed to suddenly. At the moment, ulcerative colitis has no cure. However, there are treatment options that significantly help to reduce and manage its signs and symptoms.
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Symptoms
Symptoms for this inflammatory bowel disease vary with time. Individuals diagnosed with the disease may either be symptomatic or asymptomatic, in a state of remission. Regardless, the symptoms are dependent on the location and extent of the inflammation.
The signs and symptoms for ulcerative colitis include:
• Bowel pain
• Abdominal pain
• Blood or pus stained diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Need to defecate
• The inability of bowel movement
• Fever
• Stunted growth in children
Treatment
The available treatment options are targeted to reduce and manage the symptoms of the IBD:
1. Medications for Ulcerative Colitis
Various prescriptions can be advised by the physician to control inflammation. Talking to your doctor will help you decide if one of them is right for you.
2. Diet Changes for Ulcerative Colitis
Some foods worsen the symptoms and signs of ulcerative colitis, especially when inflammatory bowel disease is active. Depending on the symptoms, the doctor will suggest necessary diet adjustments and recommend vitamins and other nutritional supplements.
3. Surgery
Often, this treatment method completely eradicates ulcerative colitis. The procedure involves removing the affected part of the colon. This process is referred to as (IPAA). The surgeon may create a pocket from the end of the small intestines of the affected patient, which is then directly connected to the body, and this allows bowel movements. Alternatively, the surgeon can create an opening called the ileal stoma at the abdomen. A bag or pouch is then attached to this space, collecting all waste materials. The patient is required to wear this pouch at all times.
This IBD can affect any individual, regardless of age and gender. The patient may either be symptomatic or in a state of remission. There are available treatment methods that aim at reducing and managing the signs and symptoms. Surgery is the only way of completely eradicating the IBD.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.
