Digestive System

To date, there is no known cause for ulcerative colitis. Therefore, ulcerative colitis is said to be an idiopathic disease, meaning that it develops without an apparent or known cause. Ulcerative colitis appears to be a disease primarily of those living in Western, industrialized societies. Whether this is because of some kind of condition of […]

The immediate symptoms of ulcerative colitis may be the same as those found in a number of other conditions that affect the bowel, such as viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection. A complete medical history and a thorough physical examination, along with laboratory and diagnostic tests, are necessary to diagnose ulcerative colitis. Symptoms vary. They may

Diagnosing ulcerative colitis may involve laboratory tests and one or more procedures that allow the doctor to visualize the intestine. It is important that if inflammatory bowel disease is suspected, a correct diagnosis of either ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease be made. While the two diseases have many similarities, they are distinct, and many of the

In individuals with ulcerative colitis, a distinct portion of the colon is diseased. Disease starts at the rectum and moves “up” the colon to involve more of the organ. Doctors categorize ulcerative colitis by the amount of colon involved. Regardless of how little or how much of the colon is involved, symptoms can vary from

People who live with ulcerative colitis are burdened by many questions, especially when they are having their first crisis and being diagnosed. These questions focus on issues of pain, symptoms, possible complications and disability The answers to many questions are not apparent and often take a long time to determine. But most people who live with

Medical management of ulcerative colitis begins with an attempt to reduce the symptoms and bring on a remission. After this is accomplished, the goal is to maintain remission for as long as possible. Treatment options include: Medication Surgery Alternative treatments Medications Most of the medications used to treat ulcerative colitis are generally safe for long-term

Living with a chronic disease has often been called the equivalent of having another full-time job. For some, it may be a constant struggle of management: managing medication, appointments with health-care providers, and one’s own physical and mental energy. People with ulcerative colitis must carry out their daily lives in ways that help to maintain