Definition:
Ulcerative colitis or colitis ulcerosa is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine and rectum. A systemic disease affects many parts of the body outside the intestine, it is often confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Diagnosis:
A colonoscopy with biopsy, as well as Barium enema is usually performed to diagnose Ulcerative colitis. Doctors may also conduct the following: CBC, sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein.
Treatment:
Controlling acute attacks, preventing repeated attacks and helping cure the colon are the goals of treating Ulcerative colitis. For severe attacks, hospitalization may be required and coticosteroids may be prescribed to lessen inflammation.
Among the medications used to decrease the frequency of attacks include 5-aminosalicylates such as mesalamine and immunomodulators such as azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine. Infliximab, an intravenous medicine, has also been found to improve symptoms of the disorder.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include diarrhea, abdominal pain, abdominal sounds, fever, weight loss, and tenesmus.
Other symptoms associated with Ulcerative colitis are nausea and vomiting, joint pain, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Causes:
The cause of the disorder remains unknown. However, it is known that it may affect any age group though higher incidence have been found among people ages 15-30.
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