Introduction to Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by chronic inflammation and ulceration of colon and rectum.
The exact cause of UC remains unclear; however, it is believed that genetic predisposition combined with environmental factors as well as misdirected immune response against digestive tract could lead to it. The severity of UC symptoms varies widely from mild to severe forms accompanied with bloody stool, belly pain, sudden urgency for bowel motioning, tiredness, weight loss and bloody stools.
Typically, diagnosis involves looking at one’s medical history, conducting a physical examination, doing blood tests, and stool tests, taking imaging studies and endoscope. The treatment of ulcerative colitis aims to control symptoms, induce and maintain remission and avoid complications.
