Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Proctitis

This is characterised by inflammation confined to the anus or rectum. It is the mildest form of UC and typically presents with symptoms, such as rectal bleeding.

Left-Sided Colitis

This type involves inflammation that extends from the rectum up through the last section of the colon (distal colon), which includes the sigmoid and descending colon.

Proctosigmoiditis

This type of UC affects the rectum and the lower end of the colon (sigmoid colon).

Family History

Individuals with one or more first-degree relatives (parent, sibling, or child) who have the condition are more likely to develop it themselves.

Age

While ulcerative colitis can occur at any age, it is more often diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 15 and 30 or over 60.

Abdominal Pain and Cramping

The pain is usually felt in the lower abdomen and can range from mild discomfort to severe cramping.

Blood and Pus in Stool

Patients often experience stools that contain blood and pus due to infection and ulceration in the colon lining.

Diarrhoea

This is characterised by loose or watery stools often accompanied by blood or pus, which indicates that the colon is inflamed.

Fever

During severe flare-ups, some individuals may experience a fever, indicating the body's response to inflammation.

Weight Loss

The inflammation in the intestines can affect the body's ability to absorb nutrients, leading to significant weight loss.

Tenesmus

This refers to a sensation of incomplete bowel emptying and the persistent urge to have a bowel movement.

Blood Test

This test checks for signs of a low red blood cell count (anaemia) or infection.

Imaging Scans

Computerised tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans can generate images of the colon and rectum to assess the extent of inflammation.

Stool Sample

This test analyses the patient’s faecal matter to identify inflammatory markers, as well as the presence of bacteria and parasites. It also checks for white blood cells or certain proteins that may indicate ulcerative colitis.

Colonoscopy

This procedure examines the entire colon using a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope. Tissue samples (biopsies) may also be taken during a colonoscopy to confirm the extent of inflammation, ulcers, or abnormal cells.

Medications

To alleviate inflammation and manage symptoms, the doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and immune system suppressors. In some cases, biologics may be recommended to target specific proteins within the immune system.

Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

It is advisable to avoid trigger foods, such as spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Instead, maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables. In addition, regular exercise and stress management techniques may help to improve symptoms.

Malnutrition

An inflamed and damaged colon may impair nutrient absorption, leading to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, weight loss, and weakened immune function.

Bowel Obstruction

This occurs when inflammation and scarring cause the intestines to become blocked, leading to severe abdominal pain, bloating, and the inability to pass stool or gas.

Osteoporosis

Chronic inflammation and prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to decreased bone density, making individuals with UC susceptible to fractures and osteoporosis.

Anaemia

Persistent bleeding within the gastrointestinal tract may lead to anaemia or a low red blood cell count.

Perforation

This occurs when there is a hole in the colon wall, leading to leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity.

Severe Dehydration

Chronic diarrhoea and inflamed intestinal tissues can hinder proper fluid absorption, resulting in severe dehydration.

Toxic Megacolon

Severe ulcerative colitis can cause abnormalities in the colon. When this happens, the substances inside the colon start to build up and cause the colon walls to swell or burst while toxins leak into the bloodstream.

Blood Clots

Ulcerative colitis may cause blood clots to form in the veins, arteries, and capillaries, causing life-threatening conditions such as pulmonary embolism.