Ulcerative colitis
Key points
- Ulcerative colitis is a chronic, episodic, inflammatory disease of the large intestine and rectum characterized by bloody diarrhea.
- It may affect any age group, although there are peaks at ages 15 to 30 and then again at ages 50 to 70.
- The goals of treatment are to control the acute attacks, prevent recurrent attacks, and promote healing of the colon.
- Social support can often help with the stress of dealing with illness, and support group members may also have useful tips for finding the best treatment and coping with the condition.
Definition
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic, episodic, inflammatory disease of the large intestine and rectum characterized by bloody diarrhea.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The cause is of ulcerative colitis is unknown. It may affect any age group, although there are peaks at ages 15 to 30 and then again at ages 50 to 70.
The disease usually begins in the rectal area and may eventually extend through the entire large intestine. Repeated episodes of inflammation lead to thickening of the wall of the intestine and rectum with scar tissue. Death of colon tissue or sepsis may occur with severe disease.
The symptoms vary in severity and their onset may be gradual or sudden. Attacks may be provoked by many factors, including respiratory infections or stress.
Risk factors include a family history of ulcerative colitis or Jewish ancestry. The incidence is 10 to 15 out of 100,000 people.
Symptoms
- Diarrhea, from only a few episodes to very frequently throughout the day (blood and mucus may be present)
- Abdominal pain and cramping that usually subsides after a bowel movement
- Abdominal sounds (borborygmus, a gurgling or splashing sound heard over the intestine)
- Fever
- Weight Loss
- Foul-smelling stools
- Tenesmus
- Jaundice
Additional symptoms that may be associated with ulcerative colitis include the following:
- nausea and vomiting
- Joint pain
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
Signs and tests
- Colonoscopy with biopsy is used to diagnose ulcerative colitis
- Barium enema
Your doctor may also order the following blood tests:
- CBC
- Sedimentation rate (ESR)
- CRP (C-reactive protein)
Treatment
Frequently asked questions
What is ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic, episodic, inflammatory disease of the large intestine and rectum characterized by bloody diarrhea.
What are the risk factors for ulcerative colitis?
The cause is of ulcerative colitis is unknown. It may affect any age group, although there are peaks at ages 15 to 30 and then again at ages 50 to 70. The disease usually begins in the rectal area and may eventually extend through the entire large intestine. Repeated episodes of inflammation lead to thickening of the wall of the intestine and rectum with scar tissue. Death of colon tissue or sepsis may occur with severe disease. The symptoms vary in severity and their onset may be gradual or sudden. Attacks may be provoked by many factors, including respiratory infections or stress. Risk factors include a family history of ulcerative colitis or Jewish ancestry.
What are the symptoms of ulcerative colitis?
- Diarrhea, from only a few episodes to very frequently throughout the day (blood and mucus may be present)
- Abdominal pain and cramping that usually subsides after a bowel movement
- Abdominal sounds (borborygmus, a gurgling or splashing sound heard over the intestine)
- Fever
- Weight Loss
- Foul-smelling stools
- Tenesmus
- Jaundice Additional symptoms that may be associated with ulcerative colitis include the following:
- nausea and vomiting
- Joint pain
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.