Colitis (Ulcerative Colitis)
What is Colitis?
Colitis or ‘Ulcerative Colitis’ is a type of digestive disease. It is a condition in which the colon (i.e. large intestine/bowel) and rectum (end of the bowel where stool is stored) become inflamed. In this condition small ulcers can also develop on the colon’s lining, causing bleeding and pus. While there is no cure for it, treatment can help with greatly reducing symptoms and also lead to remission in the long term. While the condition may develop at any stage it is usually diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 25. It seems to equally affect both men and women.
What causes Colitis?
It is considered to be caused due to the problems in the body’s defense system against infection (immune system) which begins attacking healthy tissues in the intestine.
What are the symptoms of Colitis?
The symptoms depend on the severity and the location of the inflammation. Some symptoms are: stomach pain or cramps, recurring diarrhea, rectal pain and bleeding, fatigue, fever, weight loss.
How is Colitis treated?
It is possible to treat mild to moderate symptoms at home. In severe cases surgery might have to be performed to remove the colon. Taking medication such as aminosalicylates and corticosteroids helps most people relieve symptoms and stop them from recurring.
