Types of Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the colon. Younger to middle-aged people are more affected by this disease. There is not one exact cause, but there are common factors in people who contract this disease, which include genetics, infection in the body, allergies and even a glitch in the immune system. The bad thing about this disease is that parts of the colon that are between inflammation are not healthy, and these areas can become very weak, leading to more severe health problems.
Ulcerative Proctitis
Ulcerative colitis usually starts in the rectum; if it stays only in the rectum, you probably have ulcerative proctitis. You may have several symptoms, including diarrhea and pain, and you may even feel like you might not make it to the bathroom on time. You might also notice blood in the toilet when you go.
Proctosigmoiditis
The next section of your colon beyond the rectum is the sigmoid colon, and if the disease is in both the rectum and the sigmoid, you have proctosigmoiditis. Again, you might have diarrhea and notice blood in the toilet when you go, but you will also experience cramps, especially in your left side.
Left-Sided Colitis
Beyond the sigmoid colon is the descending colon, which goes up the left side of the abdomen. When the disease spreads up to this part of your colon, it is appropriately called left-sided colitis. Symptoms are the same only more severe. Also, you may not feel like eating and even lose weight. The pain will definitely be more severe, and you will feel it more in your left side.
Pancolitis
Beyond the descending colon is the transverse colon, which runs across the abdomen and leads to the ascending colon down the right side. If all of your colon is affected, you have what is called pancolitis. You experience the same symptoms, except your pain is more widespread throughout your abdomen.
Fulminant Colitis
The last type of ulcerative colitis is the most severe and is called fulminant colitis. A patient with this type is hospitalized and given IV medicines to try to treat the disease; surgery is usually warranted with this type, as the colon is very weak and likely to breach or burst. The patient also will not be able to keep food or drink down and may even go into shock or become septic. Toxic megacolon may also develop where the colon swells and stops movement.
Treatment
Remission of symptoms is possible with ulcerative colitis. You might be asked to make certain dietary changes, or at least to stop eating foods that cause pain or flare-ups. You may be given medication, including corticosteroids, to help reduce the inflammation. If the disease has caused you to become anemic, you may have to take iron supplements or even have a transfusion. Vitamins will also be necessary, as well as fluids, since your body may not be able to absorb either normally. If you have a severe case, you will likely have to undergo surgery to remove parts of the colon.
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