What Is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis occurs when the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum becomes inflamed, leading to the formation of ulcers. This condition is part of a group of disorders known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and can cause severe discomfort, digestive issues, and potential complications if left untreated. Without proper management, ulcerative colitis may lead to serious complications such as severe bleeding, increased risk of colon cancer, intestinal perforation, and blood clots. Early diagnosis and treatment can help control symptoms and improve long-term outcomes.

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What Are the Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis?

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis can range from mild to severe and may come and go in flare-ups. Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent abdominal pain and cramping
  • Diarrhea with blood or pus
  • Rectal bleeding or pain
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Fever and fatigue
  • Difficulty passing stool despite urgency
  • Failure to grow in children

If you are experiencing persistent digestive symptoms, it is important to seek medical evaluation. Schedule an appointment at AZ Gastro Care to receive a comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plan.

What Causes Ulcerative Colitis?

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but researchers believe that immune system dysfunction and genetic predisposition play a role. Risk factors for developing ulcerative colitis include:

  • Being under the age of 30 at the time of onset
  • Having a family history of ulcerative colitis or inflammatory bowel disease
  • Being Caucasian, though the condition can affect individuals of all ethnicities

While diet and stress do not directly cause ulcerative colitis, they may trigger symptoms or worsen flare-ups in some individuals.

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How Is Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosed?

To diagnose ulcerative colitis, our team conducts a comprehensive medical evaluation, including:

  • Medical history review and symptom assessment
  • Physical examination
  • Blood tests to check for signs of inflammation or anemia
  • Stool tests to rule out infections or other gastrointestinal conditions
  • Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy to visualize inflammation and collect biopsies
  • Imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI for a more detailed evaluation of the digestive tract

An early and accurate diagnosis allows for effective treatment planning, reducing the risk of complications and improving quality of life.

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How Is Ulcerative Colitis Treated?

Treatment for ulcerative colitis is designed to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and prevent flare-ups. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may involve:

Lifestyle Modifications

Certain lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve overall digestive health. These include:

  • Adopting a gut-friendly diet that avoids trigger foods
  • Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
  • Managing stress levels through relaxation techniques
  • Engaging in regular exercise to promote overall well-being
  • Eating smaller, more frequent meals to ease digestion

Alternative Therapies

Some patients benefit from complementary treatments, such as:

  • Probiotics to promote gut health
  • Fish oil and omega-3 supplements to reduce inflammation
  • Acupuncture and herbal remedies to support symptom management

While alternative therapies should not replace medical treatment, they may be used as supplementary approaches to help manage symptoms.

Medication Management

A variety of medications can help control inflammation and prevent symptom flare-ups. Treatment options may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs such as aminosalicylates and corticosteroids
  • Immune system suppressors that target the body’s inflammatory response
  • Biologic therapies that block specific proteins responsible for inflammation
  • Corticosteroids for short-term relief during flare-ups

Our team works closely with each patient to determine the most appropriate medication based on symptom severity and treatment response.

Surgical Treatment for Ulcerative Colitis

In cases where medications and lifestyle changes are ineffective, surgery may be recommended. Surgical options may involve:

  • Removing the diseased portion of the colon while preserving normal digestive function
  • Creating an ileal pouch (J-pouch) to restore bowel function without the need for a permanent ostomy

Surgery is considered only when necessary, and our team at AZ Gastro Care works closely with each patient to explore all available treatment options before recommending surgical intervention.

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Why Choose AZ Gastro Care for Ulcerative Colitis Treatment?

At AZ Gastro Care, we understand that ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing care and personalized treatment. Our team is dedicated to helping patients achieve long-term remission and a better quality of life through:

  • Comprehensive diagnostic services using the latest medical technology
  • A multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care with specialists in gastroenterology, pathology, and nutrition
  • Customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs
  • Access to advanced therapies, including biologic infusions and cutting-edge surgical procedures

Our patient-centered approach ensures that individuals with ulcerative colitis receive the most effective treatments available while receiving ongoing support and education to manage their condition successfully.

Schedule an Appointment for Ulcerative Colitis Treatment

If you are experiencing persistent digestive symptoms, seeking treatment early can help prevent complications and improve long-term health outcomes. At AZ Gastro Care, our team specializes in comprehensive ulcerative colitis treatment, offering advanced therapies and personalized care in Mesa, Chandler, and Gilbert.

Schedule your appointment today to take the first step toward better digestive health and lasting symptom relief.

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