Ulcerative Colitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the colon and rectum. The cause of UC is not completely understood, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal immune response in the colon.

Symptoms of UC include abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and weight loss. In some cases, the symptoms may be mild and intermittent, while in others, they may be severe and persistent.

Diagnosis of UC involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. The diagnosis is typically confirmed by a colonoscopy with biopsy, which allows the physician to directly visualize the colon and rectum and obtain tissue samples for analysis.

The goal of treatment for UC is to reduce inflammation in the colon and improve symptoms. Treatment options include medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and biologic therapies. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected portion of the colon.

In addition to medical treatment, lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction may also help to manage symptoms and improve overall health in people with UC.