Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disorder that affects the colon and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers. It can affect daily life and cause complications that can be life-threatening. Symptoms most often develop over time, and there is no cure for the condition. However, treatment can reduce the severity.
Causes
The exact cause of this condition is unknown; however, diet and stress can cause a flare-up. A possible cause of ulcerative colitis could be impaired functioning of the immune system. When fighting off invading bacteria or viruses, the immune system could also attack the cells of the digestive tract. It has been observed that UC is commonly diagnosed in people who have family members with the condition. However, most people with this condition don’t have a family history of it.
Symptoms
The symptoms of ulcerative colitis depend on the severity of the inflammation. It affects the parts of the digestive tract, causing the following symptoms.
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Diarrhea with pus or blood
- Rectal pain or bleeding
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Weight loss
- the urgency to pass stool or the inability to pass stool despite urgency
In children, UC can impact growth.
Diagnosis
The following are used to diagnose UC.
- Lab tests
- Blood tests – To check for anemia that could occur due to rectal bleeding or signs of infection.
- Stool tests – To examine white blood cells and certain proteins that could indicate the condition. It can also rule out infections caused by bacteria, parasites, and viruses that cause similar symptoms.
- Endoscopic tests
- Colonoscopy – The colon is examined using a thin, light, flexible tube with a camera at the end. A tissue sample can also be taken for further analysis.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy – This procedure is recommended when the colon is severely inflamed. The rectum and the lower part of the colon are examined using a flexible thin tube.
- Imaging procedures
- X-ray – To check for complications such as a perforated colon.
- CT scan – To check for complications and to determine the severity of inflammation.
- CT enterography and MR enterography – These noninvasive tests are used to check for inflammation in the small intestine.
Treatment
- Anti-inflammatory drugs – This is the first method of treatment and involves the use of the following.
- 5-aminosalicylates that can be taken orally or as a suppository enema, depending on where the infection occurs in the colon.
- Corticosteroids are used to treat moderate or severe cases of ulcerative colitis that do not respond to other treatments.
- Immune system suppressors – These reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune system. However, they cause serious side effects, and long-term use is not recommended.
- Biologics – This is used when patients have severe symptoms and cannot undergo other treatment options. It neutralizes a protein produced by the immune system that causes inflammation.
- Other medications such as anti-diarrheal drugs, pain relievers, iron supplements, and antispasmodics could be prescribed to relieve symptoms.
- Surgery – A proctocolectomy to remove the colon and rectum can also be done.
Natural remedies
The following natural remedies can be used to manage ulcerative colitis.
- Probiotics
These living micro-organisms help boost healthy bacteria in the gut and are found in yogurt and fermented foods. - Herbal medications
This includes aloe vera gel, wheatgrass juice, and Plantago ovata seeds. These contain compounds that support the functioning of the immune system and antioxidants that reduce inflammation. - Turmeric
Curcumin in turmeric can be beneficial in treating UC.
Best food to have
- Ripe bananas
Ripe, soft fruits such as bananas or canned pears or peaches will not irritate the digestive system. - Cooked vegetables
Thoroughly cooked vegetables that are soft and easy to mash with a fork can also be consumed as the fiber that irritates the gut is broken down. - Applesauce
Soft and easy-to-digest foods are recommended for patients with UC. Opt for sugar-free varieties.