Ulcerative colitis refers to inflammation in the lining of the colon and rectum. The inflammation or swelling is severe enough where it destroys cells in the lining causing ulcers that bleed and produce pus. The condition is also known as irritable bowel disease, affects men and women equally and has a higher incidence in Caucasians and people of Jewish descent. Although the disease can occur at any age, it is more common between the ages of 15 and 30 years and can be an inherited condition, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Cause
There are three factors that may contribute to colitis. One factor is autoimmune disease whereby the immune system views the colon as an invader and produces an immune response with inflammation. Another factor is hereditary where the condition is passed down genetically from a parent to a child. A third factor is infection either by a virus or bacteria. When infection occurs, the immune system responds with inflammation causing damage to the intestine over time.
Symptoms
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the most common symptoms of colitis are bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Other symptoms include joint pain, rectal bleeding, weight loss, anemia, fatigue, skin lesions, loss of nutrients and fluids, fever, nausea, appetite loss and growth failure in children. Other symptoms unrelated to the digestive tract have been observed such as liver disease, arthritis, osteoporosis and eye inflammation. It is suspected that these conditions may be due to the inflammation response.
Diagnosis
There are several diagnostic methods used to detect colitis. Colonoscopy involves using a thin, fiber-optic tube with a light to observe the colon for physical damage. The doctor is able to use tools attached to the tube to remove tissue samples for observation if needed. Scans are also used like x-rays and CT scans (computerized tomography) to either rule out other conditions or to observe the progression of the disease. Stool samples are observed for the presence of bacteria, parasites or viruses in order to rule out infection. If white blood cells are observed, then it is an indication of colitis. Barium enema is another method where barium is put into the intestine and this creates a coating effect. An x-ray is then used to observe the intestine for abnormalities that will show up with the barium. Blood tests are also taken to observe for infections as well as test for colitis antibodies.
Treatment
Several treatments are available according to the Mayo Clinic. One type of treatment aims at immune system suppression which helps reduce inflammation. This includes cyclosporine, infliximab and azathioprine. Anti-inflammatory drugs are also administered and include corticosteroids, mesalamine and sulfasalzine. Iron supplements are given if too much blood is lost during diarrhea, while antibiotics are given to prevent infections. Pain relievers and anti-diarrheals are also given to relieve symptoms of pain and excessive diarrhea. Surgery is often a last alternative if nothing else works and involves removing the colon and replacing it with a portion of the small intestine. This usually works similar to the removed large intestine.
Living with Colitis
Colitis takes both a physical and emotional toll on an individual and the best way to cope with the condition is to join a support group. The advantages are that an individual is able to interact with other people who have the same condition as a means of coping. Counseling is also another option if support groups are not available.
