Ulcerative Colitis

24+ years of experience 20,000+ patients treated. Insurance facilities are available for laparoscopic Ulcerative Colitis repair.

What are Ulcerative Colitis ?

Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic condition where the colon and rectum become inflamed and develop ulcers. It causes symptoms like abdominal paindiarrhea, and often leads to significant discomfort. This condition is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that requires ongoing treatment.

Types of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis can be classified into several types, depending on the specific area of the colon affected and the severity of the inflammation:

Ulcerative Proctitis: Inflammation is confined to the rectum. Typically, this form is the mildest.
Proctosigmoiditis: Inflammation affects the rectum and the sigmoid colon (lower end of the colon). Symptoms can include bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and pain.

Left-sided Colitis: Inflammation extends from the rectum up through the sigmoid and descending colon. Symptoms often include bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping on the left side, and unintended weight loss.

Pancolitis (or Total Colitis): Affects the entire colon and causes bouts of bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, fatigue, and significant weight loss.
Acute Severe : This rare form affects the entire colon and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include severe pain, profuse diarrhea, bleeding, fever, and inability to eat.

Treatments for Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the colon and rectum. Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, control symptoms, and achieve and maintain remission. Here’s an overview of the main treatments for ulcerative colitis:

Medications

Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: These medications reduce inflammation in the colon, helping to alleviate symptoms. Common examples include 5-aminosalicylates and corticosteroids.

Immunosuppressants: Drugs like azathioprine and methotrexate suppress the immune system, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups.

Biologic Therapies: Biologic drugs, such as Entyvio and infliximab, target specific molecules in the immune system to control inflammation.

Diet and Nutrition

Low-Residue Diet: Minimizing fiber intake can help reduce the frequency and volume of bowel movements, easing symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Avoiding Trigger Foods: Certain foods, such as spicy foods, dairy products, and caffeine, can exacerbate symptoms and should be avoided.

Lifestyle Modifications

Stress Management: Stress can worsen the symptoms, so practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can be beneficial.

Regular Exercise: Maintaining an active lifestyle can help improve overall health and may reduce the severity of symptoms.

Surgery

Colectomy: In severe cases of Ulcerative Colitis that do not respond to medication, surgical removal of the colon (colectomy) may be necessary. This procedure can often provide long-term relief from symptoms.

J-Pouch Surgery: After a colectomy, some patients may undergo a procedure to create a J-pouch from the end of the small intestine, which acts as a reservoir for stool. This can allow for more normal bowel function.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Regular Check-Ups: Patients with Ulcerative Colitis should have regular check-ups with their healthcare provider to monitor their condition and adjust treatment as needed.

Colonoscopies: Periodic colonoscopies may be recommended to assess the extent of inflammation in the colon and monitor for signs of complications such as colon cancer.

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Why Lux

Lux Hospital provides comprehensive care for Ulcerative Colitis, offering state-of-the-art treatments tailored to each patient’s needs. With a dedicated team of gastroenterology specialists and cutting-edge facilities, patients receive personalized attention and support throughout their treatment journey. From advanced medication options to surgical interventions, Lux Hospital ensures the highest standard of care for those living with Ulcerative Colitis.

Causes of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors.

Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis commonly presents with the following symptoms:

  • Abdominal Pain: Often crampy and located in the lower abdomen.
  • Diarrhea: Frequent, urgent bowel movements, sometimes with blood or mucus.
  • Rectal Bleeding: Blood in the stool or on toilet paper.
  • Urgency to Defecate: Sudden, intense need to have a bowel movement.
  • Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss due to loss of appetite or malabsorption.
  • Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.
  • Other Symptoms: Fever, nausea, and joint pain may also occur in some cases.

Tips to Prevent Ulcerative Colitis

While the exact cause of Ulcerative Colitis is unknown, some lifestyle modifications may help reduce the risk of developing the condition:

 

  • Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and limit processed foods and high-fat meals.

  • Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as exercise, meditation, yoga, and deep breathing to help manage stress levels.

  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing Ulcerative Colitis, so avoiding tobacco products is advisable.

  • Limit NSAID Use: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin may worsen symptoms or trigger flare-ups in some individuals, so use them sparingly and under medical supervision.

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep the body hydrated and help maintain regular bowel function.

  • Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to help improve overall health and promote bowel regularity.

  • Get Screened: If you have a family history or other gastrointestinal conditions, talk to your healthcare provider about screening and monitoring options. Early detection and intervention can help manage the condition more effectively.

Conclusion

Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can significantly impact the quality of life. While its exact cause remains unknown, effective management strategies such as medication, lifestyle modifications, and surgical interventions can help control symptoms and improve outcomes. With proper diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support from healthcare providers, individuals living with Ulcerative Colitis can lead fulfilling lives and maintain long-term health and well-being.

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Expertise you can trust, Meet our esteemed doctors who bring exceptional knowledge, compassion, and innovation to provide top-notch care for your health and well-being.

Dr. Abhishek

MBBS, MS, FMAS, FISCP, DMAS
Consultant Colorectal & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Proctologist
Experience : 25 years

Dr. Samyuktha

MBBS, MS, FMAS, FISCP, DMAS
Consultant Colorectal & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Proctologist
Experience : 7 years

Dr Sridhar M

MBBS, MD. Senior Consultant Anesthetist & Critical Care Specialist
Experience : 30 years

Dr. Abhishek Katha

MBBS, MS (General Surgery),
FMAS, DMAS Senior Consultant
& Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon.
Experience : 25 years

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