Living With Ulcerative Colitis: Learn the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
9/15/2023
Dealing with a condition like ulcerative colitis (UC) may be tough, but with the correct understanding and assistance, you should be able to lead a normal and fulfilling life. UC is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that primarily affects an individual’s large intestine (or colon) and rectum, provoking uncomfortable symptoms and erratic flare-ups. At Digestive Health Associates of Texas, our board-certified GI providers routinely provide treatment for this digestive condition. Read on as our Dallas, TX team goes into detail about the causes and signs of ulcerative colitis, remedies available to you, and different ways to manage UC flare-ups.
What factors cause ulcerative colitis?
Even though the cause of ulcerative colitis is not entirely understood, it is thought to come from inherited, situational, and medical factors. Some factors that may contribute to someone getting ulcerative colitis include:
- Abnormal gut microbiota
- Genetics
- Dysfunction within the immune system
- A person’s environment
- Stress and psychological elements
The relationship between the factors involved in this condition is not understood at this time; researchers are continuing to make sense of the causes and symptoms behind ulcerative colitis. If you suspect you might have UC, it is best to reach out to a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and accurate care. Our GI doctors at Digestive Health Associates of Texas are ready to help you with your symptoms.
What are the common symptoms and signs of ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis symptoms often look different from person to person, but some signs may include the following:
- Blood in the stool
- Persistent diarrhea
- Sleepiness
- Stomach pain
- Low appetite
- Unintended weight loss
- The urgency to use the bathroom
Knowing UC symptoms and looking for help from a medical professional if you suffer persistent or excruciating symptoms is essential. Prompt diagnosis and support will help manage the disease effectively.
How is UC handled?
Our gastrointestinal doctors provide ulcerative colitis treatment in Dallas, TX. These treatment solutions help control inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and maintain long-lasting remission. The first form of treatment usually involves medication, including aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, or biologics. Medications such as these can help reduce inflammation and manage your symptoms. Surgical treatment may be essential for some people, but this is usually set aside for severe instances or difficulties.
How are ulcerative colitis flare-ups managed?
Ulcerative colitis flare-ups are phases of substantial symptoms and inflammation in the digestive system. While flare-ups like these are often sporadic, there are steps to manage and reduce these symptoms' impact on you. Abiding by your prescribed treatment plan is vital. Maintaining a healthy quality of life, like regular exercise, stress reduction, and a balanced diet, may help control symptoms and mitigate the rate and intensity of your flare-ups. Additionally, it would help if you talked with your gastroenterology doctor when you have flare-ups for timely modifications to your treatment regimen as required.
Be in charge of your GI journey: Get treatment for ulcerative colitis in Dallas, TX
After understanding ulcerative colitis signs and symptoms, seeking favorable treatment, regulating flare-ups, and adopting a health-conscious lifestyle, you should be able to manage your UC. If you or someone you know is dealing with ulcerative colitis, make the first move toward addressing it by seeing a gastrointestinal doctor at Digestive Health Associates of Texas. Remember, prompt attention can notably enhance your quality of life. Contact your nearest Dallas, TX location to request a consultation.