Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. The condition typically affects the colon and rectum and can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

While the exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role in its development.

What are the Risk Factors for Ulcerative Colitis?

While anyone can develop ulcerative colitis, certain factors may increase your risk for the condition. These include:.

Family history: If you have a first-degree relative with ulcerative colitis, you are at a higher risk of developing the condition.
Age: Ulcerative colitis can occur at any age, but it most commonly develops in people between the ages of 15 and 30.
Non-Caucasian ethnicity: People of African American, Hispanic, and Asian descent have a higher risk of developing ulcerative colitis than people of European descent.
Smoking: Smoking has been shown to increase the risk of developing ulcerative colitis.
Autoimmune disorders: People with autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, may be at a higher risk of developing ulcerative colitis.

What are the Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis?

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis may vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:.

Abdominal pain and cramping
Diarrhea, often with blood or mucus
Rectal pain and bleeding
Urgency to have a bowel movement
Inability to have a bowel movement despite feeling the need
Weight loss
Fatigue
Fever

What are the Complications of Ulcerative Colitis?

If left untreated, ulcerative colitis can lead to a variety of complications, including:.

Severe bleeding
Hole in the colon (perforation)
Narrowing of the colon (strictures)
Fistulas
Increased risk of colon cancer
Osteoporosis
Anemia
Dehydration

How is Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosed?

To diagnose ulcerative colitis, your doctor may perform the following tests:.

Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy: These tests involve inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the colon to look for signs of inflammation and ulcers.
Biopsy: During a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, your doctor may take a sample of tissue from the lining of the colon to test for inflammation and other signs of ulcerative colitis.
Blood tests: Your doctor may order blood tests to check for signs of inflammation, such as an elevated white blood cell count or anemia.
Stool sample: Your doctor may collect a stool sample to rule out other causes of gastrointestinal symptoms, such as infections.

What are the Treatment Options for Ulcerative Colitis?

There is no cure for ulcerative colitis, but treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment options may include:.

Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids and aminosalicylates, can help reduce inflammation in the colon. Immune system suppressors, such as azathioprine and mercaptopurine, can help suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. Biologic drugs, such as infliximab and adalimumab, can also be used to reduce inflammation.
Dietary changes: Some people with ulcerative colitis find that certain foods can trigger symptoms. Avoiding trigger foods, such as dairy, spicy foods, and caffeine, may help reduce symptoms.
Surgery: If medication and dietary changes are not effective, surgery may be necessary to remove the colon and rectum.

What is the Root Cause of Ulcerative Colitis?

While the exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role in its development. Some of these factors can include:.

Abnormal immune response: Ulcerative colitis is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the digestive tract, causing inflammation and ulceration.
Genetics: It is thought that certain genes may make someone more susceptible to developing ulcerative colitis.
Environmental factors: Certain environmental factors, such as diet, smoking, and stress, may trigger ulcerative colitis in people who are genetically predisposed to the condition.

Conclusion

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract.

While the exact cause of the condition is unknown, research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role in its development. Treatment options can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications, but there is currently no cure for the condition.