What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitits (UC) is characterized by diarrhoea that can be debilitating and difficult to control. In his book, Coping Successfully with Ulcerative Colitis, Peter Cartwright explains that along with severe and persistent diarrhoea, people with UC may find blood, mucous and pus in their stools. This is caused by the inflammation in the intestine.

What are the Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

UC is characterized by a cluster of symptoms. These generally include the following:

• abdominal cramps
• tiredness
• fever
• skin complaints
• strong sudden urges to empty the bowel
• explosive diarrhoea that may contain blood, pus and mucous

How is Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosed

Persistent diarrhoea can be caused by a number of illnesses - most of which are more common than UC. When UC is suspected, a doctor will usually perform a number of tests and examinations:

• Endoscopy: This is a tube that is inserted up the back passage to examine the rectum and colon.
• X-rays: Normal X-rays and barium meal X-rays can reveal problems in the colon.
• Blood tests will measure levels of red and white blood cells, shortages of vitamins and minerals, and levels of certain enzymes and proteins.

Treatments for Ulcerative Colitis

There are various degrees of UC and several types of treatments. Peter Cartwright says that a doctor will normally work with a patient to find the best-tolerated and most effective treatment. The main aim is to stop the diarrhoea, reduce the inflammation and keep symptoms at bay. Here are some of the choices:

• Corticosteroids - These drugs have the effect of reducing the redness, swelling and pain of inflammation. A manufactured corticosteroid called prednisone is often the steroid of choice and in normally introduced at a high dosage and then reduced over time. Steroids can also be administered intravenously and by suppository
• Aminosalicylates - These drugs are related to ASPIRIN® and are commonly used for reducing inflammation and maintaining remission from UC. They come in oral and rectal forms and as there is a wide choice on the market, the doctor can normally find one that works well for the patient.
• Immunosuppressants - These drugs were developed to counteract the rejection of organ transplants. They also reduce the symptoms of UC and can allow for the reduction of steroid use. Unfortunately they leave the patient more vulnerable to infection as they weaken the immune system
• Colectomy - This involves the removal of the colon and the creation of an ileostomy to deal with waste. While it is a drastic step, it can offer huge relief to people who have suffered for years.

Ulcerative colitis is an unpleasant condition but with the right balance of medication and medical help, it can normally be managed. While sufferers often have to plan their lives around restroom facilities, they can live fulfilled happy lives, especially with the help and support of loved ones.

Recommended Reading: Coping Successfully with Ulcerative Colitis, by Peter Cartwright, Sheldon Press, 2004, ISBN 0-85969-917-X