Ulcerative colitis is one of the two most common types of chronic gastrointestinal disease. The other most common type is inflammatory bowel disease. People who suffer from ulcerative colitis often experience extreme abdominal discomfort along with many other symptoms. This is a chronic disease and can make life very difficult for the patient. For patients with this condition, treatment can be made available at a Houstongastroenterology clinic.
Nature of the Disease
Ulcerative colitis patients have an inflammation in their large intestine which prevents the absorption of the water from their stool. This can cause loss of lining in the colon. The condition can also cause diarrhea, internal bleeding and production of pus, along with abdominal discomfort.
Causes
The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown. However, studies have shown that people who have immune system abnormalities may also develop ulcerative colitis. Researchers are unsure as to whether the immune system abnormalities are causes or symptoms of the disease. Ulcerative colitis can also run in families and researchers have found common gene abnormalities in patients with this condition.
Diagnosis
A gastroenterology clinic is the best place for Houston residents who think they may be suffering from ulcerative colitis to go for diagnosis. Modern diagnostic equipment is available to help doctors diagnose your condition and determine the right treatment for you. Modern gastroenterology clinics provide colonoscopy and upper endoscopy procedures to diagnose digestive problems in patients.
Treatment
Treatment for ulcerative colitis varies with the severity of the condition. Medication cannot cure the disease, but it can reduce the severity of symptoms. In some cases, the disease can be managed by medications and may go into remission for months or even years. Common medications used to treat this condition include Remicade, corticosteroidsm, or immunomodulators such as cyclosporine or azathioprine. In severe cases, surgery may become necessary. One surgical technique used to treat more severe cases of UC is a proctocolectomy — this is a procedure which removes part or the entire colon along with the rectum. Surgery is only considered after all other treatment options have failed.
Living with such a condition may often result in emotional stress for patients. If the stress becomes too much, patients may become depressed. If depression accompanies ulcerative colitis, this should also be discussed with your gastroenterologist. Any medications prescribed for depression will have to be carefully monitored to prevent any possible interactions with other prescription medications.
If you are a Houston patient suffering with ulcerative colitis, there is help available. You do not have to continue to suffer with chronic abdominal discomfort any longer. The sooner you schedule an appointment to have your gastroenterological concerns addressed, the sooner your life can return to normal.
