Understand Ulcerative Colitis: Learn Its Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
9/15/2023
Living every day with a chronic condition like ulcerative colitis (UC) can be challenging. However, with the correct knowledge and support, you can have a normal and fulfilling life. Ulcerative colitis is one of the categories of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and substantially affects the large intestine and the rectum, causing different symptoms and occasional flare-ups. At Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC, our board-certified GI providers frequently handle this common gastro condition. Read below as our Hattiesburg, MS team of GI specialists helps you understand the cause and signs of UC, treatment options, and strategies for handling flare-ups.
What causes ulcerative colitis?
While the exact cause of ulcerative colitis is not completely understood, it is believed to be the result of a combination of hereditary, geographical, and medicinal factors. Some of the things that may contribute to developing UC are:
- Dysfunction within the immune system
- Genetics
- A person’s environment
- Stressful situations and cognitive factors
- Irregular gut microbiota
Ulcerative colitis is somewhat of a perplexing disease, and the interplay between the factors involved in this disease is not really known. Research is ongoing to more fully make sense of the causes and symptoms of the condition. If you suspect you have UC, we suggest you reach out to a GI doctor for an accurate diagnosis and therapy. Our GI specialists at Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC are prepared to help you.
What are the most common symptoms and signs of ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis symptoms can look different for everyone, but common signs include the following:
- Long-lasting diarrhea
- Chronic fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Low appetite
- The need to visit the bathroom
- Weight loss
It is very important to understand these warning signs and look for help from a GI doctor if you have persistent or harsh symptoms. Diagnosis and treatment as early as possible will help in managing the condition.
How is UC managed?
Our GI doctors provide ulcerative colitis treatment in Hattiesburg, MS. These treatment solutions help control inflammation, reduce symptoms, and maintain remission. The most common treatment usually includes medication, like aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, or biologics, which can help minimize inflammation and treat symptoms. Surgical intervention may be necessary, but it is typically reserved for serious cases.
How are ulcerative colitis flare-ups treated?
Flare-ups in ulcerative colitis are stretches of intense symptoms and inflammation in the GI tract. While these situations are often irregular, there are ways to manage and cut down on their impact. Adhering to your prescribed treatment is so important. Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle, like regular exercise, reduction in stress, and a health-conscious way of eating, may help regulate symptoms and lessen the amount and intensity of any flare-ups you have. It is crucial that you chat with your GI specialist when you have flare-ups so changes can be made to your treatment plan as required.
Take control of your GI journey: Receive treatment for ulcerative colitis in Hattiesburg, MS
When you understand ulcerative colitis symptoms, seek appropriate treatment, reduce your flare-ups, and maintain a healthy style of living, you are able to manage your ulcerative colitis. If you are suffering from ulcerative colitis, take the first step toward managing the condition by visiting a gastrointestinal doctor at Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC. Don’t forget, early intervention and treatment can greatly boost your standard of life. Get in touch with one of our Hattiesburg, MS locations to request a consultation.