Ulcerative Colitis in Baton Rouge, LA

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis remains unknown. However, we have identified some specific variables which consistently increase the onset of ulcerative colitis and its resulting symptoms.

• Genetics: A person could inherit genetic material from their parents, which heightens the likelihood of being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.
• Immune system: It is presumed that internal bacteria or viruses will trigger the occurrence of ulcerative colitis. When a virus or bacteria enters one's digestive tract, the body enlists your immune system to defend against the bacteria or virus. When this happens, your body directs white blood cells to the colon, where they then attack healthy tissue and cells. Because of this, your colon or large intestine becomes inflamed.

Are there risk factors for ulcerative colitis?

Some of the risk factors associated with ulcerative colitis may include:

• Age: Ulcerative colitis usually develops before 30 years of age.
• Race or ethnicity: People of Ashkenazi Jewish descent and Caucasians appear to have a higher likelihood of developing ulcerative colitis, however, the condition can affect any race.
• Family history: If a member of your family lives with ulcerative colitis, you may have a more pronounced risk of developing the disease.

What are the typical symptoms of ulcerative colitis?

The majority of symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis develop gradually, and may vary from mild to severe. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis often include:

• Sudden loss of weight
• Pain in the rectum
• Sores in the mouth
• Bloody diarrhea with pus
• Cramps
• Constipation
• Fever
• Bloody stool
• Pain in the abdomen
• Pain or drainage near or around the anus
• Normal menstrual cycle disruption

If you ever become aware of bloody stool, please contact your gastroenterologist in Baton Rouge, LA immediately. Additionally, you should see a gastroenterologist if you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms or any combination of symptoms on a regular basis. The board-certified gastroenterologists at Gastroenterology Associates are here to offer you skilled treatment for ulcerative colitis and can assist in the treatment and management of these concerns.

The main goals of ulcerative colitis treatments at Gastroenterology Associates are to manage the swelling that activates your symptoms and then achieve remission of the disease. Continuing treatment includes regular cancer screenings, as having ulcerative colitis positions you at greater risk for later suffering from colon cancer. The main parts of ulcerative colitis treatments are as follows:

Antibiotics: Antibiotics have been shown to help destroy bacteria connected with causing the excessive immune system reaction that leads to inflammation. These are not a primary form of therapy but might be administered in conjunction with other therapies.

Anti-inflammatory drugs: Anti-inflammatory medications used to treat ulcerative colitis are oral 5-aminosalicylates and corticosteroids. Corticosteroids help decrease swelling in the body and may be administered in conjunction with immune system suppressants. Oral 5-aminosalicylates can also work to reduce inflammation in your body.

Additional medications and supplements may be suggested to help ulcerative colitis difficulties. These could include:

• Vitamin D and calcium supplements
• Iron supplementation
• Vitamin B-12 shots
• Anti-diarrheals

Long-term anti-inflammatory therapies: These therapies address the body’s irregular immune response to bacteria and viruses. Common immunosuppressant drugs suggested for ulcerative colitis include:

• Adalimumab
• Vedolizumab
• Ustekinumab
• Certolizumab
• Azathioprine
• Infliximab
• Methotrexate
• Tofacitinib
• Natalizumab

Diet and Nutrition: Your GI doctor may recommend a special food plan to assist in the relief of symptoms and induce remission.

Surgery: In extreme cases, surgery might be needed to take out a part of, or the whole, colon or rectum.