Ulcerative Colitis Specialist

What is ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a part of a family of conditions called inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This family of conditions causes a long-term (chronic) inflammation of the digestive tract, which can lead to difficult symptoms and significant complications.

Ulcerative colitis affects the lower part of the digestive tract: the colon and rectum. Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation and sores (ulcers) on the innermost layer of the intestinal wall. These sores are often bloody and filled with pus, which is often seen in stool with a bowel movement.

Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time. Long-term treatment of this condition is essential, as the complications can be debilitating and even life-threatening.

What are the symptoms of ulcerative colitis?

When GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, evaluates you for the possible diagnosis of UC, the team takes a look at your health history and performs a physical exam. They may diagnose you with ulcerative colitis if you have the following symptoms:

• Cramping abdominal pain
• Frequent diarrhea (several episodes a day)
• Blood or pus in stool
• Rectal pain
• Urgent need to have a bowel movement
• Unable to have a bowel movement, despite feeling urgency

Let the team know of any symptoms you are experiencing.

How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed and treated?

In order to confirm a suspected diagnosis of UC, your provider orders a series of tests, including:

• Blood tests
• Stool tests
• CT or MRI
• Colonoscopy
• X-rays

The degree to which your colon and rectum are affected by ulcerative colitis, and any complications that have happened as result, will determine your course of treatment.

A series of medications that may allow for significant improvement of symptoms. These medications may include a combination of immunosuppressant drugs, anti-inflammatories, or antibiotics.

If necessary, the team may recommend surgery. 

To learn more about care and long-term treatment of your ulcerative colitis, call GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, or book an appointment online today.