Living With Ulcerative Colitis: Learn About Its Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
9/15/2023
Having a chronic condition like ulcerative colitis (UC) is sometimes difficult. With an understanding of the condition and the right help, you can maintain a comfortable life. UC is one of the categories of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine (or colon) and the rectum, causing uncomfortable symptoms and intermittent flare-ups. At GI Alliance of Illinois, our board-certified gastroenterologists often treat this common gastro condition. Keep reading as our team of Chicago and surrounding area GI specialists helps you understand the causes, signs, available treatments, and methods for living with flare-ups of ulcerative colitis.
What factors lead to ulcerative colitis?
While the exact cause of ulcerative colitis is not absolutely understood, it is believed to come from a blend of inherited, societal, and medical factors. Some things that may aid in the development of ulcerative colitis could be:
- Familial history
- Atypical gut microbiota
- A person’s environment
- Irregularities in the immune system
- Stressful situations and cognitive elements
You should realize that UC is a complex disease, and the interplay between these different factors is not totally known. Researchers continue to explore this disease to more fully comprehend it. If you suspect you might be dealing with ulcerative colitis, you may want to reach out to a gastroenterology specialist for a correct diagnosis and acceptable care. Our GI specialists at GI Alliance of Illinois are here to help.
What are the symptoms of ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis symptoms typically vary from patient to patient, however, common indicators include the following:
- Chronic fatigue
- The urgency to visit the restroom
- Stomach pain
- Unintended weight loss
- Minimal appetite
- Bleeding from the rectum
- Persistent diarrhea
It is so important to become aware of your specific symptoms and obtain help from a GI doctor if you notice reoccurring or excruciating symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment will help manage your disease effectively.
How is UC treated?
Our gastroenterology specialists provide ulcerative colitis treatment in the Chicago, IL area and surrounding areas, including Arlington Heights and Elgin. These treatment solutions will help manage inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and maintain remission. The first line of treatment usually involves medication, including aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, or biologics. Medications like these are known to help minimize inflammation and treat symptoms. In extreme instances, surgical intervention may be necessary.
How are ulcerative colitis flare-ups handled?
Flare-ups in ulcerative colitis are phases of magnified symptoms and inflammation in a person’s GI tract. While these flare-ups are sometimes unpredictable, there are methods to manage them and reduce their effects. Abiding by your specific treatment regimen is crucial. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as normal workouts, stress reduction, and a well-rounded meal plan, will often help address most of your symptoms and decrease the regularity and severity of your flare-ups. It’s important to chat with your GI specialist when you have flare-ups so they can provide prompt changes to your treatment if needed.
Be in charge of your GI journey: Receive help for ulcerative colitis in Illinois
Understanding the symptoms, finding relevant treatment, regulating your flare-ups, and maintaining a healthy life, you should be able to control your ulcerative colitis. If you or a loved one is suffering from ulcerative colitis, work toward better management by consulting a gastrointestinal doctor at GI Alliance of Illinois. Remember, hasty intervention and medical attention can remarkably boost your quality of life. Contact your nearest Chicago, Peoria, Arlington Heights, or surrounding area location today to request a consultation.