Ulcerative Colitis Management

Expert Care for Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. This condition can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other digestive symptoms, significantly impacting a person’s quality of life. While there is no cure, effective management can help control symptoms, prevent flare-ups, and improve overall well-being.

At Central Gastro, we specialize in the diagnosis and management of ulcerative colitis, offering advanced treatments and personalized care to help patients achieve long-term remission.

Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

The severity and frequency of symptoms vary from person to person and may include:

• Persistent diarrhea, often with blood or mucus.
• Abdominal pain or cramping.
• Urgency to have a bowel movement.
• Fatigue or weakness.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Fever during flare-ups.
• Rectal bleeding.

If you experience persistent digestive symptoms, early evaluation and treatment are essential.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of:

• Immune System Dysfunction: The immune system mistakenly attacks the colon lining.
• Genetics: A family history of IBD increases the risk.
• Environmental Factors: Diet, stress, and infections may trigger or worsen symptoms.

Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis

At Central Gastro, we use advanced diagnostic tools to confirm ulcerative colitis and determine its severity:

1. Colonoscopy with Biopsy:
2. Stool Tests:
3. Blood Tests:
4. Imaging Studies:

Treatment Options for Ulcerative Colitis

Our approach to managing ulcerative colitis focuses on reducing inflammation, controlling symptoms, and preventing complications:

1. Medications:

• Aminosalicylates (5-ASA
• Corticosteroids
• Immunomodulators
• Biologic Therapies: 
• JAK Inhibitors

2. Nutritional Support:

• Customized dietary plans to avoid triggering foods and maintain proper nutrition.
• Supplements for deficiencies caused by malabsorption or dietary restrictions.

3. Lifestyle Modifications:
4. Surgical Options:

• For severe cases or complications, such as toxic megacolon or colorectal cancer.
• Proctocolectomy with Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis (IPAA): Common surgery to remove the colon and rectum while maintaining bowel function.

Monitoring and Long-Term Care

• Regular follow-ups to track disease progression and treatment effectiveness.
• Colonoscopy screenings to monitor for colon cancer, as UC patients have a higher risk.
• Education on recognizing early signs of flare-ups to seek timely care.

Living Well with Ulcerative Colitis

With the right management strategies, most patients with ulcerative colitis can:

• Achieve long-term remission.
• Maintain a high quality of life.
• Prevent complications and minimize the impact of flare-ups.

When to Seek Care for Ulcerative Colitis

If you experience persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or rectal bleeding, contact us immediately for an evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing symptoms and preventing complications.