Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease, affects the inner lining of your large intestine and rectum, causing numerous symptoms. If you are suffering from troubling digestive symptoms or changes in bowel habits, visit Dr. Ahmed to be tested for ulcerative colitis and other conditions affecting your long-term health.

Causes of Ulcerative Colitis (UC)

The exact cause of inflammatory bowel disease is unknown. It may be related to a faulty immune system, and it is also thought that there is a hereditary component.

Symptoms of UC
Symptoms include blood in the stools, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, weight loss, fever.

Diagnosing Ulcerative Colitis
Dr. Ahmed performs a colonoscopy, which is the best was to diagnose Ulcerative Colitis. The colonoscopy will also determine the severity of the disease. He will also order bloodwork to help make the diagnosis. There are different forms of UC, classified based on location of the inflammation.

Treating Ulcerative Colitis
Depending on the form of ulcerative colitis diagnosed, various medications and procedures may be recommended to relieve inflammation and improve quality of life. Some of these medications include anti-inflammatory medications for the colon, immune system suppresors, antiobiotics, and pain relievers. Sometimes, in severe cases, a person with Ulcerative Colitis is referred to a surgeon for possible removal of the diseased portion of the colon.
Ulcerative Colitis increases a person’s risk for colon cancer, so colon cancer screening is an important component of UC management.