Colitis refers to inflammation of the large intestine. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition, and symptoms are able to include abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and bowel urgency. When symptoms suggest colitis, diagnostic testing can help identify the condition and guide discussions about available treatment options. Here is more information about what to know about ulcerative colitis:
Recognizing Symptoms
Ulcerative colitis can produce several digestive symptoms. Inflammation affects the large intestine, and symptoms may vary depending on the location and severity of the condition. Because other digestive conditions cause similar symptoms, a medical evaluation may be needed to identify the underlying cause.
- Experiencing abdominal cramps
- Developing frequent diarrhea
- Feeling persistent bowel urgency
- Noticing appetite or weight changes
- Developing a fever
- Experiencing dehydration
- Noticing blood or mucus in stool
Inflammatory bowel disease may also involve symptoms outside the digestive system. Mouth sores, joint discomfort, and skin changes can occur, while digestive symptoms remain common features of the condition. When these symptoms appear alongside ongoing bowel changes, a gastroenterologist can evaluate the pattern and discuss diagnostic testing.
Distinguishing Colitis From Ulcerative Colitis
Colitis describes inflammation of the large intestine. Infections may cause some forms of colitis, while ulcerative colitis involves chronic inflammation associated with an abnormal immune response. Because inflammatory bowel disease affects the intestinal lining, inflammation and ulcers can develop within the colon.
The duration of these conditions also differs. Some forms of colitis may resolve after their underlying cause is treated, but inflammatory bowel disease requires ongoing medical management. When digestive symptoms persist or return, a gastroenterologist can evaluate their cause and determine whether additional testing is appropriate.
Diagnosing Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Diagnosing inflammatory bowel disease begins with a review of symptoms and medical history. Blood tests provide information about inflammation or infection, and additional testing examines the large intestine more directly. When further evaluation is needed, a gastroenterologist may use colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy to examine the intestinal lining. These procedures can identify inflammation and allow tissue samples to be collected for additional evaluation.
Treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease treatment focuses on managing inflammation. Anti-inflammatory medications may be used first, and additional therapies depend on symptoms and response to treatment. Because ulcerative colitis involves abnormal immune activity, some treatment options target the immune response.
Immunomodulators and biologic medications provide additional treatment approaches. These medications work differently, while treatment selection depends on disease severity and individual health factors. When one medication does not provide adequate symptom management, a gastroenterologist may discuss another approach.
Surgery is another treatment option for inflammatory bowel disease. Some patients may require surgery, and this approach is generally discussed when medications do not adequately manage the condition. If surgery becomes appropriate, the gastroenterologist can explain the procedure and how it fits within ongoing care.
Contact a Gastroenterologist Today
Inflammatory bowel disease shares symptoms with other forms of colitis. Blood tests and diagnostic procedures provide additional information, and a colonoscopy may help identify inflammation within the large intestine. Because ulcerative colitis requires ongoing management, an accurate diagnosis allows patients to discuss appropriate treatment options with a gastroenterologist. Contact a gastroenterologist today to discuss persistent digestive symptoms and available testing.
