Living With UC: Know and Understand Its Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
9/15/2023
Living every day with a chronic condition like ulcerative colitis (UC) can be difficult. With the proper education and support, however, you will be able to maintain a fulfilling life. Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that commonly affects an individual’s colon and rectum, causing different symptoms and occasional flare-ups. At GastroGroup and Endocenter, our board-certified GI providers routinely provide treatment for this digestive condition. Read below as our Louisiana team of GI specialists explains the reasons for and signs of UC, treatments available to you, and strategies for managing flare-ups of the disease.
What factors cause ulcerative colitis?
Even though the exact cause of ulcerative colitis is not completely understood, doctors believe it is brought on by a combination of familial, societal, and medicinal factors. Some of the factors that might aid in developing ulcerative colitis could be:
- Genetics
- Societal factors
- Stress and psychological factors
- Atypical gut microbiota
- Immune system irregularities
UC is a complicated condition, and the interchange between the factors involved in this disease is not completely understood. Research is continuing to help specialists better understand the causes and symptoms of ulcerative colitis. If you think you might have ulcerative colitis, we urge you to consult with a doctor for a reliable diagnosis and suitable treatment. Our providers at GastroGroup and Endocenter are available to help.
What are the common symptoms and signs of ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis symptoms may look different from person to person, but a few warnings include the below:
- Frequent diarrhea
- Unintended weight loss
- Rectal bleeding
- Abdominal pain
- No desire to eat
- Tiredness
- The frequent need to have a bowel movement
It is vital to become aware of your signs and find help from a GI doctor if you incur repeated or unrelenting symptoms. Swift diagnosis and treatment will help you manage your condition efficiently.
How is ulcerative colitis treated?
Our GI specialists offer ulcerative colitis treatment in Louisiana. These solutions can help manage inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and sustain remission. The first form of treatment usually includes prescribed medication such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, or biologics. Medications like these can help reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. A surgical operation may be needed in some instances; however, this is generally set aside for extreme instances of ulcerative colitis.
How are ulcerative colitis flare-ups handled?
UC flare-ups are stretches of heightened symptoms and inflammation in the GI system. While flare-ups are often unpredictable, there are steps you can take to manage and cut down on the symptoms’ impacts. Abiding by your prescribed treatment regimen is crucial. Maintaining a healthy quality of life, like routine workouts, reduction in stress, and a healthy menu, should help manage symptoms and minimize the regularity and severity of flare-ups. It’s critical that you connect with your healthcare provider during flare-ups for adequate adjustments to your treatment regimen as necessary.
Take control of your GI journey: Receive relief for ulcerative colitis in Louisiana
By understanding the signs and symptoms, getting suitable care, controlling flare-ups, and fostering a healthful way of life, you are able to take control of your ulcerative colitis. If you’re suffering from ulcerative colitis, work toward managing it by seeing a gastrointestinal doctor at GastroGroup and Endocenter. Remember, early attention can remarkably boost your quality of life. Get in touch with your nearest Louisiana location to request a consultation.