Living With Ulcerative Colitis: Understand the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
9/15/2023
Suffering from a chronic condition like ulcerative colitis may be burdensome. But with the proper education and guidance, you should be able to live a normal life. UC is one of the categories of inflammatory bowel disease that commonly affects a person’s large intestine (or colon) and rectum, leading to some symptoms and occasional flare-ups. At Connecticut GI, our board-certified gastroenterologists routinely address this common gastro condition. Keep reading as our Connecticut team of GI specialists explains the causes and signs of UC, treatments, and different ways of handling flare-ups.
What factors cause ulcerative colitis?
While the cause of ulcerative colitis is not completely understood, it is theorized to result from a combination of inherited, geographical, and medicinal factors. Some factors that could contribute to a person getting ulcerative colitis include:
- Abnormal gut microbiota
- Environmental factors
- Irregularities in the immune system
- Familial history
- Stress and other mental factors
Ulcerative colitis is a complex disease, and the interchange between the factors involved in this condition is not totally known. Researchers continue to learn more about the causes and symptoms of ulcerative colitis. If you suspect you may have UC, you may want to visit a gastroenterology specialist for a diagnosis and suitable care. Our GI doctors at Connecticut GI are on standby to help you with your symptoms.
What are the common signs of ulcerative colitis?
Your ulcerative colitis symptoms may look different from those of other individuals, but some standard signs may include the following:
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- The urgency to have a bowel movement
- Frequent diarrhea
- Tiredness
- Reduced desire to eat
- Rectal bleeding
It is important to take account of these signs and seek out help from a GI doctor if you experience frequent or excruciating symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help manage the disease.
How is ulcerative colitis treated?
Our GI specialists provide ulcerative colitis treatment in Connecticut. These treatment methods help to control inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and extend ongoing remission. The most common treatment often consists of prescribed medication, like aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, or biologics. These medications are known to help reduce inflammation and regulate symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Surgical intervention may be necessary for some patients, however, it is typically reserved for more extreme cases.
How are ulcerative colitis flare-ups managed?
UC flare-ups are periods of heightened symptoms and inflammation in the digestive tract. While these situations can be sporadic, there are steps you can take now to manage and minimize the symptoms’ impacts. Sticking to your prescribed treatment plan is so important. Additionally, fostering a healthy way of life including regular exercise, less stress, and a nutritious diet, will help regulate symptoms and mitigate the prevalence and intensity of any flare-ups you have. It’s important to chat with your gastroenterologist when you have flare-ups so adequate changes can be made to your treatment regimen if needed.
Take control of your journey: Receive treatment for ulcerative colitis in Connecticut
By understanding the signs and symptoms, seeking suitable care, regulating flare-ups, and keeping up with a health-conscious style of living, you should be able to take control of your ulcerative colitis. If you or a loved one is dealing with ulcerative colitis, work toward managing the condition by consulting a gastrointestinal doctor at Connecticut GI. Remember, timely care and medical attention can notably enhance your standard of life. Reach out to your nearest Connecticut location today to request a consultation.