Ulcerative Colitis
Colon and Rectal Surgery located in Sacramento, Carmichael and Roseville, CA
Ulcerative colitis, which causes colorectal inflammation and ulceration, is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). If you have ulcerative colitis symptoms, visit one of the Sacramento Colon and Rectal Surgery Medical Group offices in Sacramento, Roseville, or Carmichael, California. The practice’s highly skilled surgeons have extensive experience managing ulcerative colitis, including performing advanced surgery to remove the affected colon and rectum. Call your nearest office to schedule an ulcerative colitis assessment or book an appointment online today!
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affecting your large intestine (colon). It’s similar to the other main form of IBD, Crohn’s disease. However, it only affects the colorectal area, whereas Crohn’s disease can affect the entire gastrointestinal tract.
Ulcerative colitis begins in the rectal region and may extend along the entire colon. It affects the tissues lining the large intestine, creating inflammation and ulceration.
Ulcerative colitis symptoms include:
If you suffer from chronic bleeding, you may become anemic (lack of iron in your blood). Some people with ulcerative colitis develop additional problems unrelated to colorectal symptoms. These include arthritis, uveitis (eye inflammation), liver problems, and skin conditions.
Ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune disorder. It develops when your immune system, which protects you from infection, attacks healthy cells in your body. With ulcerative colitis, the damage primarily occurs in the cells lining your colon and rectum.
Why autoimmune disorders affect some people is unclear. There could be genetic and environmental influences, but there’s no single cause.
People with ulcerative colitis have a higher risk of colorectal cancer. They should undergo screening colonoscopies at intervals recommended by their gastroenterologist.
Sacramento Colon and Rectal Surgery Medical Group can diagnose ulcerative colitis after performing a colonoscopy. This procedure involves inserting a tiny camera on a flexible tube (colonoscope) into your rectum.
Unlike the similar sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy examines the entire length of your colon to the small intestine. Your provider can take a biopsy (tissue sample) for analysis to confirm your diagnosis.
Ulcerative colitis treatment varies depending on the severity of your illness. Most patients use powerful anti-inflammatories like mesalamine or medications that suppress the immune system’s oversensitivity.
Sacramento Colon and Rectal Surgery Medical Group reserves surgery for unsuccessful medical management or complications arising from ulcerative colitis.
Surgery might require removing the entire colon and rectum, then creating a pouch joining the small intestine to the anal opening. This technique avoids the need for a permanent stoma (a hole with an external bag for waste).
If you have ulcerative colitis symptoms, call Sacramento Colon and Rectal Surgery Medical Group today or book an appointment online for expert diagnosis and treatment.