What Is Ulcerative Colitis?
As part of our gastrointestinal services, GI Specialists of Georgia offers diagnosis and treatment plans for ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the large intestine and rectum. The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder which occurs when the immune system attacks the lining of the rectum and spreads to the colon. Ulcerative colitis can impact one's quality of life, causing painful symptoms, dietary restrictions, and emotional distress.
Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis and Testing
Diagnosis of ulcerative colitis involves a combination method, including physical examination, blood and fecal tests, imaging tests, colonoscopy, and biopsy. Some of these tests are used to rule out other conditions. During a colonoscopy, a thin, flexible tube is used to examine the inside of the colon and rectum. This also allows the specialist to take a tissue sample for biopsy. Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays with contrast may also be used to detect inflammation and assess the extent of the disease. Your medical and family history, diet, and symptoms will be taken into consideration when making a diagnosis.
Ulcerative Colitis Treatment Options
There is currently no cure for ulcerative colitis, but there are treatment options to manage symptoms. It's important to seek early treatment to prevent complications and improve one's quality of life. Treatment options may include medications to reduce inflammation, surgery to remove the colon, lifestyle, and dietary adjustments to manage symptoms, or a combination depending on the type and severity.
Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms and Causes
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis may include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, bowel movement urgency, fatigue, and weight loss. Other symptoms may include fever, anemia, joint pain, and skin and eye irritations. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary in severity. Some people with ulcerative colitis may experience periods of remission, while others may experience lifelong and chronic symptoms.
Types of Ulcerative Colitis
There are different types of ulcerative colitis. This includes proctosigmoiditis, left-sided colitis, pancolitis, and fulminant colitis. Proctosigmoiditis affects the rectum and sigmoid colon; left-sided colitis affects the rectum and left-side of the colon, while pancolitis affects the entire colon. Fulminant colitis is a severe and rare type that affects the entire colon and can lead to life-threatening complications. Diagnosing the type of ulcerative colitis helps to determine the most effective treatment plan.
Why Choose GI Specialists of Georgia?
GI Specialists of Georgia’s team is made up of highly experienced gastroenterologists specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of ulcerative colitis, as prompt diagnosis and treatment can help manage the disease and prevent complications. At GI Specialists of Georgia, we offer advanced treatments and procedures that are tailored to each patient's individual needs, including medication management, nutritional support, and surgical options.
Contact Us to Schedule an Appointment in Atlanta, GA
If you are experiencing symptoms of ulcerative colitis, reach out to GI Specialists of Georgia to schedule a consultation with one of our compassionate physicians. We will work with you to make informed decisions and develop a personalized treatment plan to help manage your symptoms and prevent complications. Schedule an appointment at our office in Atlanta.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Atlanta-Area Gastroenterologists
Whether you’re here for an endoscopic ultrasound or a colonoscopy, we will treat you with the utmost respect and dignity. Our gastroenterologists in the Douglasville and Northwest Atlanta area believe in the importance of educating our patients on a variety of health topics, ranging from anemia to gastrointestinal infections, cirrhosis of the liver, and pancreatitis. To schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified gastroenterologists, please contact GI Specialists of Georgia today.
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