How is Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosed When There Are No Symptoms?
There are a couple of reasons for this. People don't always stampede to the doctor for such symptoms as diarrhea or cramping and fevers. Even if they occur on a regular basis they are often likely to attribute the symptoms to diet or lifestyle; especially at younger ages.
Additionally, the existence of ulcerative colitis may not be discovered because there are no symptoms or because the symptoms occur in a way that is "outside the box"; it is always smart to remember that it is the "practice" of medicine.
Can the conditions be dangerous that might be present with ulcerative colitis? Yes. There is a condition called sclerosing cholangitis which is an inflammation of the bile duct. This is a similar situation to a gallstone becoming lodged in a bile duct (although not exactly alike). The fact of the matter is that it can be representative of many conditions including cancer. Existence of sclerosing cholangitis in the absence of other conditions may represent ulcerative colitis.
Any immune disorder can have as a partner ulcerative colitis. Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are two conditions that may exist and as therapy moves forward may reveal the existence of ulcerative colitis.
These conditions mentioned are conditions that may alert a physician to look at the entire body for problems. However, conditions that are way more mundane can signal ulcerative colitis as well and frankly most physicians will not be looking for ulcerative colitis.
Hypertension is very common. Adult-onset diabetes is very common. Yet, these conditions can signal ulcerative colitis also.
How do you defend yourself? If you have ulcerative colitis how do you make sure it comes to the fore? Simply have regular check-ups, report any changes in your body or body habits to your doctor and perhaps, most importantly, get a second opinion once in awhile. After all, two heads are always better than one!
References:
"On the Road Again" Shire Pharmaceutical Chicago, Illinois April 14, 2008
wrongdiagnosis.com
mayoclinic.com
Published by Gary Davis
Retired Insurance CEO. Trained in medicine and medicines. Trained in mental health particularly manic depression as well as most illnesses (from medical underwriting. Business owner, business, marketing,... View profile
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