Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a condition that is still stumping the very best doctors in the world. How are those who are living with this disease and their caregivers to know what is important? Following is my top 10 list of what everyone with UC should know about this condition.
1. UC is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
UC is one of the
two main forms of IBD. The other is Crohn's disease. The two diseases have similar symptoms and are treated by some of the same drugs, but are
actually quite different. It is important to know which form of IBD is present before a treatment plan can be devised.
There is no cure for either form of IBD. It is a lifelong condition.
2. No one knows exactly what causes UC.
UC is known as an idiopathic disease, or a disease with an unknown cause. There are, however, several
theories about the origins of UC and conditions that may contribute to its development. None of these theories is yet proven, and much more study will need to be completed before there is a definitive answer.
3. Symptoms of UC can include:
4. Extra-intestinal symptoms include:
5. Stress does not cause UC.
In the past, it was widely believed that there was a
psychological component to IBD. Older studies that showed that stress and psychological problems played a role in the development of IBD have remained unconfirmed. Many people still believe the false IBD/stress connection.
6. UC occurs more frequently in non-smokers.
Former smokers are at the highest risk for developing UC, while current smokers are at the least risk. This indicates that something about smoking cigarettes (most likely the
nicotine) may prevent the development of UC.
7. People with UC have an increased risk of colon cancer.
The
risk of colon cancer increases after 8 to 10 years of active UC. People with UC primarily in the rectum rectum have the lowest risk of developing colon cancer; disease in just part of the colon involved carries an intermediate risk; disease in the entire colon has the greatest risk. However, more than 90% of IBD patients never develop colon cancer.
8. NSAIDs may bring on symptoms.
NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium can cause inflammation and worsen bleeding in the small intestine. People with UC should consult with their gastroenterologist before taking NSAIDs, even those available at drug stores. There is
new evidence to suggest that the risk may not be as significant as once thought, but many gastroenterologists still recommend that their patients with IBD not use these drugs.
9. Women with UC can have healthy pregnancies and children.
A healthy
pregnancy and baby are both possible. Fertility rates for women with IBD are the same as women who are in good health. For women whose UC is in remission, the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth and congenital abnormality are the same as that for healthy women.
10. Antidiarrheal medications should not be used without supervision.
Antidiarrheal medications are associated with a risk of
toxic megacolon. It is generally advised that these medications should only taken by persons with UC under the close supervision of a physician.
