Ulcerative colitis is a severe, chronic
inflammatory bowel disease. It causes inflammation, ulcers, and bleeding in the lining of the colon and rectum.
The cause of ulcerative colitis is not known. Inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis and
Crohn's disease) seem to run in some families. Some researchers think that a virus or bacteria causes the immune system to overreact and damage the colon and rectum.
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
Family members with inflammatory bowel disease are the only risk factor for ulcerative colitis.
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include:
Blood tests
Stool examination
Barium enema x-ray—insertion of fluid into the rectum that makes your colon show up on an x-ray
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)
Treatment
Treatment may include:
Avoiding Foods That Provoke Symptoms
These foods are different for each person. They may include:
Dairy foods (due to lactose intolerance)
Highly seasoned foods
High-fiber foods
Aminosalicylate Medications
Sulfasalazine
Mesalamine
Olsalazine
Balsalazide disodium
Steroid Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Prednisone
Methylprednisolone
Budesonide (in enema form)
Immune Modifier Medications
Azathioprine
6-mercaptopurine
Cyclosporine
Biological Agents
Infliximab
Surgery
Very severe colitis may not improve with medication. If so, you may be advised to have all or part of your colon removed. Surgery may also be recommended because ulcerative colitis increases your risk of
colon cancer.
Over time, colitis that is not treated or does not respond to treatment can lead to:
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.
