Ulcerative Colitis Specialist

What is ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis (UC)-is a type of chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes persistent inflammation in your digestive tract. This condition results in ulcers or sores in the lining of your large intestine and rectum.

UC is thought to be an autoimmune condition where the cells from your immune system affect the lining of the intestines. Environmental and genetic factors are thought to contribute to the development of the disease. 

For some, ulcerative colitis can become debilitating and may even lead to potentially life-threatening complications. For many, even moderate symptoms can interfere with their quality of life and overall digestive health.

What are the symptoms of ulcerative colitis?

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis typically develop gradually and can worsen over time. As a result of ulcerative colitis, you may experience issues like:

• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Bloody stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal cramps and pain
  
  

Ulcerative colitis can also cause an increased urgency to pass stool, and you may have difficulty getting to the bathroom in time.

If you have persistent abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or diarrhea, you should schedule a diagnostic evaluation for ulcerative colitis at Eisenman & Eisenman, M.D., Advanced Gastro Consultants as soon as possible.

How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed?

The team at Eisenman & Eisenman, M.D., Advanced Gastro Consultants will obtain a detailed history of your symptoms and reviews your personal and family medical history during a diagnostic evaluation for ulcerative colitis.

To confirm the condition and rule out other gastrointestinal issues, you may need to have a colonoscopy. This minimally invasive procedure allows your provider to get a closer look at the inner part of your large intestine to identify ulcers and inflammation.

How is ulcerative colitis treated?

While there’s no cure for ulcerative colitis, your Eisenman & Eisenman, M.D., Advanced Gastro Consultants provider works closely with you to determine the best theraputic options for symptoms improvement and prevent long-term health complications.

A variety of medical treatments are available to reduce inflammation in your colon and acheive symptomatic improvement.

In situations where ulcerative colitis symptoms are debilitating, or non-responsive to medical treatment, your Eisenman & Eisenman, M.D., Advanced Gastro Consultants, provider may recommend surgery to remove the colon and rectum.

If you are having symptoms that are suggestive of ulcerative colitis, schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Eisenman & Eisenman, M.D., Advanced Gastro Consultants online, or by calling the office now.