Ulcerative Colitis:

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of diseases that affects our gastrointestinal tract. Ulcerative colitis is one of those diseases. When the lining of our rectum or large intestine becomes inflamed, the condition is called ulcerative colitis. The inflammation causes small sores named ulcers on the lining of our colon. This can involve our entire colon also. Usually, this disease begins from our rectum and gradually spreads upward. This condition makes our bowel move its content rapidly so, a person with ulcerative colitis needs to empty his/ her stomach frequently, says a renowned gastro doctor in Kolkata. The ulcers form because the surface of the lining of our bowel dies. The ulcers may also cause discharge and bleeding of pus and mucus.

Symptoms:

During the time of remission, the symptoms of ulcerative colitis become mild, and some may not even have symptoms. But the symptoms may return and become severe during a flare-up. The symptoms may also change with time. The severity and seriousness of UC symptoms vary from person to person.

Common symptoms:

  • Sharp pain in the abdomen
  • The abdominal sounds may increase
  • You may notice bloody stools
  • Diarrhea is also a symptom
  • Fever may come and go
  • Rectal pain also may occur
  • Unintentional weight loss that may lead to malnutrition

Other than these signs, there are some additional symptoms that can be observed in a person affected by ulcerative colitis. Those include:

  • Pain or swelling in the joint
  • Nausea
  • Your appetite may decrease
  • A few skin problems may also occur
  • Mouth sores
  • Inflammation of eyes

If you observe any of these symptoms, kindly do not ignore them and visit The Newtown Clinic, where you can make an appointment with top gastroenterologists in Kolkata.

Causes:

It is yet to be clear that why most immune systems respond by attacking our large intestines leaving all other organs. Researchers say that ulcerative colitis is the result of an overactive immune system.

Other factors that may play a vital role in developing ulcerative colitis in the human body:

  • Your genes may be a cause
  • If you have any immune disorder, you have a high chance of developing another
  • Other than these, virus, bacteria and antigens also may trigger your immune system

Diagnosis:

Best gastro doctors in Kolkatarun multiple tests before confirming that you have ulcerative colitis as this condition mimics many other bowel diseases also.

Tests that doctors prefer to run:

  • Stool test: Examining your stool becomes necessary as doctors check the inflammatory markers, bacteria, blood, and parasites.
  • Endoscopy: Through endoscopy, doctors examine your stomach, small intestine, and esophagus.
  • Colonoscopy: This test is done for checking the inside of your colon
  • CS scan: A specialized X-ray of your pelvis and abdomen is very important.
  • Blood tests: At times, blood tests can also be useful to detect ulcerative colitis.

Treatment:

Medication can help reduce your symptoms and have control over your UC. But in case of emergency, you may need to get hospitalized. Surgery also takes place if your doctor thinks it’s suitable for you.