Ulcerative Colitis Treatment Specialist in Cypress, and The Woodlands, TX

Ulcerative colitis is a bowel disease that causes inflammation of the tissue found within the digestive tract, leading to the development of digestive sores and ulcers. This condition affects the lining of the large intestine, primarily the colon and rectum.

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis usually develop slowly over time and may drop off for prolonged periods before returning. When these symptoms present, they’re often uncomfortable, and painful, and can hinder one’s ability to function normally in their day-to-day life.

Due to the different areas, this condition can affect, healthcare professionals have specific terminology that they use to identify each type. They are:

• Ulcerative proctitis: Inflammation is localized to the area in closest proximity to the anus and rectum.

• Proctosigmoiditis: Inflammation is found in the rectum and lower end of the colon (the sigmoid).

• Left-sided colitis: Swelling and inflammation occur in the rectum, up through the sigmoid, and into the underlying tissue of the colon.

• Pancolitis: This type of inflammation is widespread, often affecting the entirety of the colon.

At the current time, there is no established cure for ulcerative colitis. However, there are several treatment options available to help sufferers lessen and alleviate their symptoms. It’s also possible for these medical therapies to cause the condition to go into remission.

While the exact cause of ulcerative colitis is a mystery, early research suggests that a malfunctioning immune system and/or genetic factors may play a role in its development. A poor diet and high levels of stress, while not related to its onset, are also known to aggravate the condition.

There are several other components that may be linked to developing this condition. They include:

• Age: While ulcerative colitis can affect any age range, it’s most common for symptoms to start presenting before the age of 30.

• Race: Caucasian people have been shown to have the highest risk of the disease, with those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent having the highest rates. However, it should be noted that all ethnicities can be, and are, affected.

• Family history: If you have a close genetic relative who suffers from ulcerative colitis, you’re at higher risk of developing it yourself. It’s been shown that those who have a primary relative, such as a parent or sibling, that have the condition have a 1-in-5 chance of getting it themselves.

• Smoking: Those who smoke cigarettes have been shown to have higher rates of ulcerative colitis, as well as other diseases that affect the digestive tract.

While there is currently no cure for ulcerative colitis, there are several treatment options available to those having been diagnosed. These options are effective at not only managing the symptoms associated with the disease but also have success in facilitating remission.

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis may differ from person to person and may also vary in terms of their intensity. The most common symptoms are:

• Fever
• Rectal bleeding
• Bloody stool
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramping and pain
• Weight loss
• Changes in appetite 
• Rectal discomfort
• Uncontrollable or sudden bowel movements 
• Inability to defecate
• Fatigue
• Growth stagnation or under-development (in children)

If you have noticed any of these symptoms, booking in with your medical practitioner is strongly advised – especially if they’re prolonged and/or affecting your quality of life.

If you’re experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of ulcerative colitis, you should seek treatment as soon as possible. A prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent more serious complications from developing. These include:

• Severe rectal bleeding
• Dehydration
• Rapid swelling in the colon
• Severe infections and abscesses
• A perforated colon (a hole in your colon)
• Blood clots
• Inflammation of the liver, skin, joints, and eyes
• Colon cancer
• Osteoporosis

If you’re experiencing digestive distress that’s affecting your quality of life, contact the professionals at Texas Colon and Pilonidal Clinic. Our team of top-tier specialists is always on standby to help you get back to feeling your best. Book in today to get assessed and treated at one of our conveniently located facilities in Texas. We serve patients from The Woodlands TX, Cypress TX, Shenandoah TX, Rose Hill TX, Conroe TX, Louetta TX, Tomball TX, Magnolia TX, Montgomery TX, Cleveland TX, Houston TX, Kingwood TX, and Humble TX, Willis TX, and beyond.