Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a severe, chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
It causes:
- Inflammation
- Ulcers
- Bleeding in the lining of the colon and rectum
© 2008 Nucleus Medical Art, Inc.
The cause of ulcerative colitis is not known. Inflammatory bowel diseases (UC and Crohn's disease) seem to run in some families. Some think that a virus or bacteria causes the immune system to overreact and damage the colon and rectum.
If you have any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to UC. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of these:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include:
- Blood tests
- Stool test
- Barium enema—injection of fluid into the rectum that makes your colon show up on an x-ray so the doctor can see abnormal spots in your colon
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy—a thin, lighted tube inserted into the rectum to examine the rectum and the lower colon
- Colonoscopy—a thin, lighted tube inserted through the rectum and into the colon to examine the lining of the colon
- Biopsy—removal of a sample of colon tissue for testing (may be performed as part of a flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy)
- Dairy foods (due to lactose intolerance)
- Highly seasoned foods
- High-fiber foods
Talk to your doctor to learn more about what foods to avoid, since this may be different for each person.
- Prednisone
- Methylprednisolone
- Budesonide (in enema form)
- Azathioprine
- 6-mercaptopurine
- Cyclosporine
Medication may not cure very severe UC. If so, your doctor may suggest having all or part of your colon removed. Surgery may also be done because UC increases your risk of colon cancer.
Over time, colitis that is not treated or does not respond to treatment can lead to:
- Arthritis
- Eye inflammation
- Liver disease
- Kidney stones
- Skin rashes
- Osteoporosis
- Colon cancer
Last reviewed February 2008 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
