Understanding Ulcerative Colitis: Symptoms and Causes

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers (sores) in the lining of your colon and rectum. It can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and weight loss. It’s a lifelong condition with periods of flare-ups and remission, and while there’s no cure, treatment can help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

 

If you have questions about ulcerative colitis, you can visit Doral Health and Wellness. We have the best gastroenterologist that can help you with your condition. You can contact us by visiting our clinic or visiting our website at https://doralhw.org/.

 

Causes

 

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Some potential triggers also include genetics, abnormal immune responses, environmental factors, and microbiome changes.

  • Genetics — If you have a family history of ulcerative colitis, you are more likely to develop the same condition, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
  • Immune system dysfunction — Ulcerative colitis is considered an autoimmune disorder, where your immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy cells in your gastrointestinal tract, leading to inflammation and damage.
  • Environmental factors — While the exact environmental triggers are unclear, factors such as diet, stress, smoking, and certain medications may also play a role in triggering or making your symptoms worse.
  • Microbiome changes — Alterations in the gut microbiome, the community of microorganisms residing in the intestines, may contribute to the development of ulcerative colitis. Disruptions in the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria could potentially trigger inflammation.

 

Symptoms

 

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary in severity and may include:

  • Abdominal pain and cramping — These can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, often occurring during or after meals or bowel movements.
  • Diarrhea — People with ulcerative colitis frequently experience loose, watery stools. Blood or pus may also be present in your stool.
  • Rectal bleeding — This is a common symptom of ulcerative colitis and often presents as bright red blood in your stool or on the toilet paper you use.
  • Urgency to have a bowel movement — There may be a sudden and overwhelming need to empty your bowels, leading to frequent trips to the bathroom.
  • Persistent diarrhea — Despite several attempts to manage it with over-the-counter medications, your diarrhea may persist, which can eventually lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
  • Fatigue — Chronic inflammation and nutrient malabsorption can lead to fatigue and weakness, affecting your daily activities.
  • Weight loss — Loss of appetite, together with diarrhea and malabsorption, can result in unintentional weight loss over time.
  • Loss of appetite — Many people with ulcerative colitis experience a decreased appetite, either due to the discomfort associated with eating or as a result of the disease process itself.
  • Fever — Inflammation in your colon can lead to systemic symptoms such as fever, particularly during flare-ups.
  • Anemia — Chronic bleeding and inflammation can lead to a decrease in your red blood cells, resulting in anemia. Symptoms may include weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they may come and go over time, with periods of remission and flare-ups. It’s important to note that if you experience any of these symptoms, you need to seek medical evaluation and diagnosis. These symptoms can significantly affect your quality of life, and timely diagnosis and management are important to effectively control your disease and prevent further complications.

 

If you or your loved one have signs and symptoms for ulcerative colitis, have them/yourself checked. You can schedule an appointment with Doral Health and Wellness Gastroenterology Center’s best gastro doctors in Brooklyn. If you are looking for treatments, you can also talk to our specialists and inquire with them. To schedule an appointment, please visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212 or call 1-347-384-5690.