About Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which also includes Crohn's disease (CD). These disorders are inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. CD is usually located in many parts of the gastrointestinal tract, while UC is usually present in the colon (large intestine).

People with ulcerative colitis are said to have either "active" disease (when there is a flare-up and they are experiencing symptoms), or to be in "remission" (which means no symptoms at all).

Even though UC is a serious chronic disease that requires long-term medication, it is still possible to lead a normal and productive life with proper treatment. In-between exacerbations, patients usually feel well and are relatively symptom-free.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of IBD?

The main symptoms of IBD typically include diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and abdominal tenderness or pain. Some signs that your doctor may check for are fever, increased heart rate, weight loss, hypotension (low blood pressure) and anemia (abnormally low number of red blood cells).

Who has IBD?

Approximately 1 million people suffer from IBD in the U.S., with roughly 2/3 having UC, and the other 1/3 having CD. Adults and adolescents aged 15 to 35 years are most susceptible to IBD. Men and women are affected by IBD almost equally. There is a greater incidence of UC in Caucasians than in minorities, and a higher incidence in the Jewish population.

What Causes IBD?

The cause of IBD is unknown, although there are some theories. Scientists think that a person's genetic predisposition, an immune system dysfunction and environmental triggers may play a role in the development or exacerbation of IBD.

Genetic Predisposition

IBD tends to run in families. Approximately 20% of people with UC have a close relative with IBD. At this time, however, there is no way to predict if certain family members will develop the disease.

Immune Dysfunction

Some researchers believe that the body's immune system may inappropriately respond to normal proteins in the body, creating inflammation in order to try and fight "foreign" substances.

Environmental Triggers

Ulcerative colitis is known to be a disease largely of non-smokers. Research suggests that cigarette smoking may have a preventive effect against the development of UC. Whereas the opposite seems to be true in persons with Crohn's disease. Investigation is currently being made into whether nicotine is of therapeutic value to patients suffering from UC. Other possible triggers such as living in an urban setting and psychological factors (i.e., stress) may play a role in the development or exacerbation of UC.

Nutrition and Ulcerative Colitis

Although what you eat does not cause IBD, it may aggravate symptoms when the disease is active. UC can deplete the body of essential nutrients, electrolytes and fluids. That's why it's essential, particularly during a flare-up, to replace lost nutrients and maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet. Talk with your doctor to evaluate what foods may irritate your UC symptoms. For some individuals, those foods include things high in fiber, dairy products, spicy foods, and caffeine. It is also important to drink at least 6 glasses of water a day to maintain fluid balance.

Stress and Ulcerative Colitis?

Stress has been shown to aggravate the symptoms of IBD as well, so do your best to manage the stress in your life both at work and at home. If you cannot manage stress on your own, seek the advice of your physician or join a support group devoted to IBD. Try to manage stress in the way that works best for you, such as practicing meditation, doing yoga, exercising or just resting. Do the things that relax you and make you happy!

Get Support

Seeking understanding and support from loved ones, your doctor and local support groups can be very comforting. A valuable resource is the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA). The CCFA is the only national non-profit organization committed to finding a cure for IBD. You can contact the CCFA at (800) 932-2423, or you can visit its Web site (www.ccfa.org) for more information about UC and a list of support groups in your area.