Ulcerative colitis is a condition that causes the inner lining of the large bowel to become inflamed, according to the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. Sometimes, the lining may develop sores or ulcers as a result of the ulcerative colitis. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) states that while ulcerative colitis can manifest at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 30. There is a higher rate of ulcerative colitis in white Americans and Jewish people than any other ethnic group; however, the disease affects women and men in equal proportions.
Causes
There isn't a single definitive cause of ulcerative colitis. It is commonly accepted that immune system abnormalities cause the disease, usually by reacting in an unusual manner with the bacteria found in the intestinal tract. Contrary to popular belief, the disease isn't caused by foods or by stress; however, certain foods and emotional turmoil can aggravate the disease and exacerbate symptoms.
Link to Cancer
Ulcerative colitis sufferers are at an increased risk of developing colon cancer. In fact, according to NDDIC, approximately 5 percent of sufferers will be diagnosed with colon cancer. The exact risk of developing colon cancer varies from one patient to another, as it depends upon the severity and location of the disease. The more severe the ulcerative colitis and the larger the area affected by the disease, the higher the risk of colon cancer.
Symptoms
The symptoms of ulcerative colitis go through stages of activity and dormancy. When the symptoms are present, the sufferer is considered to be in the midst of a flareup. When symptoms are dormant, the disease is said to be in remission. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include fatigue, decreased appetite, abdominal cramping, nausea and frequent bouts of diarrhea. Weight loss is common during flareups. In some cases, rectal bleeding or intestinal bleeding may be present. Less common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include anemia, skin lesions, joint pain or arthritis, eye inflammation, liver disease and growth restriction.
Controlling Symptoms
There are several methods doctors and ulcerative colitis sufferers use to control the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Medications, including corticosteroids, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and immunodilators are commonly prescribed to help minimize symptoms and encourage remission. Dietary changes are often recommended. Certain foods are thought to trigger symptoms. These often include fibrous foods, dairy products and acidic foods. Avoiding these foods can minimize the symptoms of ulcerative colitis during a flareup. Exercise regimes aimed at relaxation are often suggested.
Surgery
Because there isn't a cure for ulcerative colitis, surgery is sometimes required when the symptoms of the disease aren't able to be controlled. According to NDDIC, approximately 25 to 40 percent of ulcerative colitis sufferers will have a protocolectomy, which removes the colon and/or rectum, depending on the location and severity of the disease.
