Living With UC: Learn Its Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
9/15/2023
Living with a chronic condition like ulcerative colitis (UC) can be tough. However, with the right education and moral support, you should be able to lead a satisfying life. UC is an inflammatory bowel disease that mostly affects an individual’s large intestine (or colon) and rectum, provoking various symptoms and sporadic flare-ups. At Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates, our board-certified gastroenterologists routinely treat this condition. Read on as our Lubbock, TX team of gastrointestinal doctors reviews the causes and signs of ulcerative colitis and treatments and methods for managing flare-ups of this disease.
What causes ulcerative colitis?
While the specific cause of ulcerative colitis is not completely understood, it is thought to come from a blend of hereditary, environmental, and medical factors. Some factors that could aid in the development of UC are:
- Societal factors
- Hereditary predisposition
- Immune system irregularities
- Atypical gut microbiota
- Stressful situations and other mental factors
Ulcerative colitis is a complex disease, and the relationship between the factors involved is not fully understood. Researchers continue to try and make sense of the details of ulcerative colitis. If you suspect you may have UC, you should schedule an appointment with a gastroenterology specialist for a careful diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. Our GI specialists at Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates are prepared to help you with your symptoms.
What are the most common signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis symptoms may look different from other patients, but some standard signs may include the following:
- No desire to eat
- Abdominal pain
- Weight loss
- Persistent diarrhea
- The frequent need to visit the restroom
- Fatigue
- Rectal bleeding
It is crucial to understand your warning signs and seek out help from a GI doctor if you have persistent or unrelenting symptoms. Prompt diagnosis can help control the condition successfully.
How is UC handled?
Our providers offer ulcerative colitis treatment for Lubbock, TX patients to help control inflammation, reduce symptoms, and maintain remission. The first form of treatment usually includes prescribed medication, like aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, or biologics. These medications aid in reducing inflammation and regulating symptoms. Surgical intervention may be required for some patients, but surgery is usually set aside for severe cases or issues.
How are ulcerative colitis flare-ups treated?
Ulcerative colitis flare-ups are periods where you experience intense symptoms and inflammation in the GI tract. While these situations might be sporadic, there are steps you can take to manage and minimize their effect. Adhering to your recommended treatment is crucial. Developing a restorative quality of life, including normal workouts, reduction of stress, and a nutritious diet, will help manage your symptoms and minimize the regularity and fervency of your flare-ups. It’s crucial to talk with your healthcare provider during flare-ups for timely changes to your treatment if needed.
Control your health journey: Find relief for ulcerative colitis in Lubbock, TX
After understanding ulcerative colitis symptoms, getting adequate care, regulating flare-ups, and adopting a healthful life, you should be able to take control of your ulcerative colitis. If you or a loved one is suffering from ulcerative colitis, work toward better management by consulting a gastrointestinal doctor at Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates. Keep in mind, early intervention can notably boost your quality of life. Contact your nearest Lubbock, TX location to request a consultation.