Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic condition that impacts the colon, causing inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract.
If you’ve recently been diagnosed or are seeking answers, this guide can help you understand how UC impacts your body, identify symptoms, and explore management options.
Digestive health is a critical part of overall wellness, and addressing conditions like UC early can improve your quality of life. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the large intestine, particularly the colon and rectum. Ulcerative colitis gut impact includes inflammation that erodes the colon lining, causing ulcers that may bleed or produce mucus. This damage can impair the colon’s normal function, disrupting digestion and bowel movements.
Unlike Crohn’s disease, which can affect multiple parts of the gastrointestinal tract, UC is limited to the inner lining of the colon.
Causes
Doctors have not identified a definitive answer for ulcerative colitis causes, but several factors are thought to contribute to its development:
- Immune system dysfunction – The immune system might target harmless gut bacteria, causing inflammation.
- Genetics – Family history of IBD can increase your risk.
- Environment – Certain environmental factors like diet, pollutants, or stress might trigger or worsen inflammation.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis often come and go, known as flare-ups and remissions. Here’s how ulcerative colitis affects the gut and the signs to watch for:
- Blood or mucus in stool
- Persistent diarrhea
- Stomach pain or cramping during bowel movements
- Urgency to have a bowel movement
Severe Symptoms
Some individuals with ulcerative colitis symptoms may experience more severe complications:
- Dehydration due to frequent bowel movements
- Rectal bleeding
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
If you experience any of these symptoms, reaching out to a gastroenterologist is essential.
Diagnosis
Doctors use a combination of methods to diagnose UC:
- Bloodwork to check for anemia or inflammation markers
- Stool samples to rule out infections
- Colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy to examine the colon and collect biopsies
Your doctor may also use scans, such as an X-ray or CT, to evaluate the extent of inflammation.
If left untreated, ulcerative colitis can cause severe damage to the colon, as chronic inflammation leads to ulcers, bleeding, and scarring, highlighting the importance of understanding how ulcerative colitis damages the colon.
Treatment Options
Although there’s no cure for UC, effective ulcerative colitis treatment options can help manage the condition and improve your daily quality of life.
Medical Treatments
Here are some common medical treatments used to manage ulcerative colitis symptoms and reduce inflammation in the colon:
- Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs, immune suppressants, or biologics can reduce flare-ups and manage symptoms.
- Surgery – Severe cases may require the removal of the colon (colectomy).
Discuss your options with a qualified ulcerative colitis gastroenterologist.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes may not seem impactful at first, but even before starting medication, they can empower you to take control of your condition and feel better. Small adjustments can make a difference:
- Manage Stress – Consider meditation, yoga, or counseling.
- Quit Smoking – If you smoke, speak with your doctor about support services.
- Maintain Activity – Light exercise can boost energy levels and reduce flare-ups.
Dietary Recommendations
What you eat plays a role in managing UC. Work with your doctor or dietitian to identify trigger foods and stay nourished. Suggestions include:
- Eat small, frequent meals.
- Stay hydrated.
- Limit caffeine, alcohol, and fatty fried foods.
- Include easily digestible options, like applesauce or plain rice, during flare-ups.
Take Charge of Your Gut Health
Understanding ulcerative colitis is key to managing ulcerative colitis in the gut effectively. From seeking reliable diagnostics to following a personalized treatment plan, early action can prevent complications and improve your everyday life.
If you’re looking for personalized guidance, contact us today to schedule your consult with a GI Associates provider by calling (757) 547-0798. Our team of gastroenterologists specializes in helping patients explore tailored solutions for better health.
