What Is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affecting the large intestine and the rectum. It can be painful and disruptive, and it can significantly impact one's quality of life.
For support in managing ulcerative colitis in the Delray Beach and Boca Raton, FL, areas, look no further than Gastroenterology Consultants of Boca Raton. Dr. Todd Eisner, Dr. Theodore Doukides, and Dr. Stephen Miller are experienced gastroenterologists who can help improve your quality of life.
Causes
While the exact cause of ulcerative colitis remains unclear, it's believed to be the result of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. Those with a family history of IBD are at higher risk.
Infections or exposure to certain dietary elements may also play a role, as may an overactive immune response against the body's intestinal lining.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Ulcerative colitis can present a wide range of symptoms, and these can vary depending on the person. Common symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Urgency to have a bowel movement
- Joint pain
If you've had any changes in your gastroenterological health and notice any of the above symptoms, it may be worth making an appointment with Gastroenterology Consultants of Boca Raton, in Delray Beach, and Boca Raton, FL, where Drs. Todd Eisner, Theodore Doukides, and Stephen Miller can diagnose ulcerative colitis.
Diagnosing ulcerative colitis typically involves looking at your medical history, a physical examination, and diagnostic tests. These tests could include:
- Blood tests
- Stool tests
- CT scans
- Colonoscopy
- Biopsy samples
Treatment and Management
While there's no cure for ulcerative colitis, there are some common treatment approaches to manage symptoms and induce and maintain remission:
- Medications like anti-inflammatory drugs or immunosuppressants.
- Dietary changes, like avoiding trigger foods or following specific diets.
- Stress management, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.
- Surgery (in severe cases when medications are ineffective), where the colon is removed, may result in an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) or permanent ileostomy.
Living with ulcerative colitis can be challenging, but with the right support and management, individuals can lead fulfilling lives.
Dr. Todd Eisner, Dr. Theodore Doukides, and Dr. Stephen Miller at Gastroenterology Consultants of Boca Raton are here to help. If you need help managing ulcerative colitis in Delray Beach and Boca Raton, FL, call (561) 368-3455.