A number of infections and other conditions can cause the rectum to become irritated and inflamed, but few of them cause lasting symptoms. Ulcerative colitis, however, is a lifelong condition that begins with rectal inflammation and can worsen to involve much or all of the large intestine. Ulcerative colitis most often begins to cause symptoms between the ages of 15 and 40.
Research suggests that ulcerative colitis is genetic (inherited). The illness may begin with a breakdown in...
Read moreThe definition of colitis is inflammation of the colon. There are many different ways that inflammation can present and manifest itself.... Read more »
See Part I of this series for more Q&A from Dr. Eisner The arthritis in my knee has been acting up lately. A rheumatologist... Read more »
Dear Dr. Borigini:Is joint pain a symptom commonly associated with ulcerative colitis? I've heard that rheumatoid arthritis and UC are... Read more »
I have had ulcerative colitis for years, and it began when I stopped smoking. I have read that there may be an association. I... Read more »
Ten years ago when I was finally diagnosed with UC I was given Asacol, a 5-ASA drug, to get the inflammation in my colon under control.... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
The two major inflammatory bowel diseases, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, share certain characteristics:Symptoms usually appear in young... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
There is no definitive diagnostic test for ulcerative colitis, although findings on biopsy and barium x-rays, as well as appearance during endoscopy... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Complications in the IntestineMalabsorption and Malnutrition. Malabsorption is the inability of the intestines to absorb nutrients. In IBD, this... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
AminosalicylatesAminosalicylates contain the compound 5-aminosalicylic acid, or 5-ASA, which helps reduce inflammation. These drugs are used to... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
SurgeryProctocolectomy and Ileoanal AnastomosisProctocolectomy is removal of the entire colon, including the lower part of the rectum and the... Read more »