Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon. While it resembles Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis can affect people at any age, but it is most common in individuals aged 15-30. The risk of developing this disease increases after the age of 50.
One of the most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis is diarrhea with blood, but it can lead to other symptoms as well. The severity of symptoms depends on the extent of inflammation in the colon and the affected area. What makes ulcerative colitis particularly concerning is its association with an increased risk of colon cancer. Therefore, treating the disease is essential to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
Causes of Ulcerative Colitis
A study published by Johns Hopkins Medicine identified several factors that are strongly associated with the onset of ulcerative colitis:
- Genetic Factors: Experts believe that specific genes can cause symptoms of ulcerative colitis and determine when they will appear in a person’s life.
- Environmental Factors: Diet, exposure to pollution, and smoking are considered triggers for the onset of ulcerative colitis.
- Immune System: Sometimes, the immune system responds to viral or bacterial infections, but continues to react even after the infection has been cleared, leading to chronic inflammation in the colon.
- Autoimmune Response: Some theories suggest an immune system malfunction that causes the body to attack non-existent infections, leading to the development of ulcerative colitis symptoms.
- Gut Microbes: The intestines of people with ulcerative colitis contain certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses that are not found in healthy individuals. This suggests that these microbes play a role in triggering the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
According to Everyday Health, the most common symptom of ulcerative colitis is diarrhea. Some patients may also experience abdominal pain with cramps. The diarrhea can start gradually or suddenly, and the severity of the symptoms depends on how widespread the inflammation is. Other symptoms of ulcerative colitis may include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Anemia
- Fever
- Dehydration due to diarrhea
Symptoms tend to worsen in the morning, and they can range from mild to severe. If left untreated, the symptoms usually return. The symptoms also vary depending on which part of the colon is affected.
My Experience with Ulcerative Colitis
Ghada, 33 years old, shares her experience with ulcerative colitis. She explains, "A few years ago, I started experiencing strange abdominal pain that came and went. Over time, it became chronic and severely affected my life and mental well-being. I felt acidity in my stomach, and sometimes I experienced discomfort after eating. I would feel full after a small meal. That’s when I decided to consult a doctor. After conducting the necessary tests, it was revealed that I had ulcerative colitis."
She continues, "My doctor recommended taking some medications and emphasized the importance of adhering to the treatment plan. He also suggested lifestyle changes, such as avoiding spicy and acidic foods, staying away from caffeine and smoking, eating small and frequent meals, and avoiding eating before bedtime. Following his advice and using the medications regularly helped me significantly. I noticed that my symptoms gradually improved, and I felt more comfortable."
Ghada concludes, "My life has returned to normal, and I can now enjoy meals without pain. I changed my diet to avoid foods that exacerbate my symptoms, such as spicy foods, acidic foods, and caffeine. I also tried reducing stress by practicing yoga, as it had an impact on my condition. Ulcerative colitis is not a dangerous disease if diagnosed early and treated properly, but it can become serious if left untreated. Today, I feel more energetic and live a much more comfortable life."
Types of Ulcerative Colitis
There are different types of ulcerative colitis, which include:
- Ulcerative Proctitis: This affects the end of the colon (rectum). Symptoms include rectal bleeding, which may be the only symptom. Although flare-ups may recur, ulcerative proctitis is usually the mildest form of ulcerative colitis.
- Proctosigmoiditis: This type affects the rectum and the sigmoid colon (the lower part of the colon). Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and pain.
- Left-Sided Colitis: This type affects the rectum, left side of the sigmoid colon, and descending colon. Symptoms include diarrhea, left-sided abdominal cramps, and weight loss.
How Is Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosed?
According to Health Magazine, diagnosing ulcerative colitis involves the following steps:
- Medical History: The doctor will review the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and family history to check if anyone has a history of digestive disorders such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
- Medical Tests: These may include blood tests to evaluate hemoglobin levels and the white blood cell count. Stool tests may help identify blood or pus in the stool. Imaging tests like CT scans, X-rays, and colonoscopy are used to visualize changes in the colon and detect ulcers.
- Colonoscopy: This procedure allows doctors to examine the entire colon and identify any ulcers.
Complications of Ulcerative Colitis
If left untreated, ulcerative colitis can lead to serious complications, including:
- Anemia from blood loss due to ulcerations
- Abdominal cramps and pain
- Dehydration from chronic diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Increased risk of colon cancer
- Bowel perforation
- Liver diseases
- Inflammatory conditions affecting the joints, eyes, and skin
- Osteoporosis (bone thinning)
Dietary Recommendations for Ulcerative Colitis
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), some dietary changes can help manage the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. These include:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals (5-6 smaller meals a day instead of 3 large ones)
- Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, to prevent dehydration
- Avoiding caffeine, which can worsen diarrhea
- Avoiding carbonated beverages, which can cause bloating
- Limiting foods that trigger symptoms, such as spicy foods, fatty foods, and foods high in fiber
In conclusion, ulcerative colitis is a manageable condition if diagnosed early and treated properly. With the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, individuals can live a healthy, normal life despite the disease.
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