Ulcerative Colitis (UC): Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that specifically affects the colon (large intestine) and rectum. It is characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the inner lining of the colon and rectum. The inflammation typically starts in the rectum and can extend to other parts of the colon in a continuous pattern.
Key features of ulcerative colitis include:
- Symptoms: Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea (often bloody), rectal bleeding, urgency to have bowel movements, and weight loss.
- Involvement: Limited to the colon and rectum (continuous inflammation).
- Complications: Severe cases can lead to complications such as perforation of the colon, toxic megacolon (dangerous dilation of the colon), and an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
- Diagnosis: Diagnosis is made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, endoscopic procedures (colonoscopy), and imaging studies.
- Treatment: Treatment aims to control inflammation, manage symptoms, and prevent flare-ups. Medications (anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, and biologics) are commonly used. In severe cases, surgery to remove the affected portion of the colon may be necessary.
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