Ulcerative colitis is a condition in which the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum becomes inflamed. It is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn disease is a related condition.
CAUSES
The cause is unknown. People with this condition sometimes have problems with their immune system. However, it is not clear if immune problems cause this illness. Stress and certain foods can trigger symptoms, but they do not cause ulcerative colitis.
This condition may affect any age group. There are peaks at ages 15 to 30 and then again at ages 50 to 70.
The disease begins in the rectal area. It may stay in the rectum or spread to higher areas of the large intestine. However, the disease does not skip areas. It may involve the entire large intestine over time.
Risk factors include a family history of ulcerative colitis or other autoimmune diseases.
Symptoms may start slowly or suddenly. Half of people only have mild symptoms. Others have more severe attacks that occur more often. Many factors can lead to attacks. Such as:
- Pain in the abdomen and cramping.
- A gurgling or splashing sound heard in the intestine.
- Blood and possibly pus in the stools.
- Diarrhea, from only a few episodes to very often.
- Fever.
- Feeling that you need to pass stools, even though your bowels are already empty.
- Weight loss.
EXAMS AND TESTS
Colonoscopy is also used to screen people with this condition and colon cancer. Other tests are barium enema, complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), stool calprotectin or lactoferrin, and an antibody test by blood.
Other tests are CT scans, MRI, Upper endoscopy or capsule study, and an MR enterography.
DIET AND NUTRITION
- Eat small amounts of food throughout the day.
- Drink plenty of water (drink small amounts throughout the day).
- Avoid fatty, greasy or fried foods and sauces (butter margarine and heavy cream
NOTE: This isn’t a complete list. Always check with your doctor or nutritionist.
