Approximately one in 100 people will develop ulcerative colitis (Cu) during their lifetime. The numbers may be higher in people with a family history of the disease or other autoimmune disorders. Cu is characterized by recurrent episodes of inflammation (swelling) and pus in the colon.

The inflammation can range from mild to severe and can occur at any time. Episodes can last from a few days to several weeks and can recur throughout the year. Below you will find more detailed information about the definition, causes, symptoms, and treatment options for ulcerative colitis.

What is ulcerative colitis?

Bowel disease with effects on everyday life

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that often affects the large intestine and causes severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and malnutrition. It manifests as recurring painful episodes that can be mild or severe and last for days, weeks, or months.

Symptoms can affect daily activities, and regular medication may be necessary to control them. Some people with ulcerative colitis require hospitalization to alleviate severe episodes.

Lifelong treatment required

The disease is considered dangerous because it requires lifelong treatment. Treatment typically includes remission induction with medications such as immunosuppressants, regular medical checkups, and nutritional counseling.

Ulcerative colitis, once it reaches a certain severity, is also treated surgically. It is therefore a dangerous, chronic disease that can be fatal if left untreated.

Fatal end of the disease

Mortality rates for ulcerative colitis range from 3% to 25%. Mortality rates are highest in patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis.

The most common causes of death in patients with ulcerative colitis are infections, liver failure, and complications following surgery. The most severe form of ulcerative colitis, in particular, is often fatal.

Ulcerative colitis – a disease with diverse causes

The cause of copper is considered unknown. However, it is believed to be multifactorial and polymicrobial, with a strong genetic component. A disturbed microbiota (gut flora), impaired immune function, and infections are also mentioned as possible causes.

Factors that promote development include the environment (such as diet, bacteria, food allergens and viruses), constitution (such as genetic background, predisposition, environmental influences and immune dysfunction), the pancreas (pancreatic insufficiency), metabolism (including obesity) and elevated serum insulin levels.

Ulcerative colitis - typical symptoms

There are a number of symptoms that can indicate ulcerative colitis. Some of the most common signs are fatigue, cramping abdominal pain, bloody, mucus-filled diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and weight loss. The disease may be accompanied by fever.

Frequent, small bowel movements and persistent, painful urges to defecate are further characteristics of ulcerative colitis. It is important to see a doctor if any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks or worsen.

What is an ulcerative colitis flare-up?

An ulcerative colitis flare-up is a temporary increase in the severity of symptoms caused by an attack of the inflammatory bowel disease. A flare-up usually lasts two to seven days and can be very severe, causing intense abdominal pain and diarrhea.

During a flare-up, bloody, mucus-filled bowel movements occur up to five times a day. In severe cases, high fever, increased heart rate, paleness, and weakness also develop.

Ulcerative colitis treatment

Change your lifestyle by changing your diet

Treatment for copper typically involves lifestyle changes in the form of dietary modifications. Some specific foods to avoid if you have copper include white bread, pasta, white rice, soda, fried foods, cold cuts, processed foods, and excess oil.

This dietary change can help manage the symptoms of ulcerative colitis while preventing further flare-ups and damage to the intestines from overuse. Eating a variety of fiber-rich foods keeps your bowels moving and reduces inflammation.

medication or surgery

One way to treat ulcerative colitis is with medication. This can include anti-inflammatory drugs such as prednisone or sulfasalazine. Mesalazine or Mutaflor are often used for mild flare-ups, while severe flare-ups require prednisolone or azathioprine.

Anti-inflammatory medications often relieve symptoms, although they may not completely stop the recurrence of ulcerative colitis. Therefore, some people may require surgery to remove the affected part of the intestine.

Ulcerative colitis self-test

A self-test, available in various forms, can be used to diagnose copper (cubic ulcer). It consists of a simple questionnaire to measure the levels of certain substances in the blood. However, since this test does not provide a definitive diagnosis, experts recommend consulting a specialist.

The test is not specific to ulcerative colitis and can also be used to identify other types of chronic diarrhea. Therefore, the test does not clearly identify the exact disease. Only a specialist can make a precise diagnosis.

Ulcerative colitis – effects on mental health

Reasons for the development of psychological consequences

One in three patients experiences a negative psychological consequence. The psychological effects of ulcerative colitis are primarily due to the fact that people with ulcerative colitis often struggle with severe and chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain.

These conditions can seriously deplete the body's resources and cause immense physical and emotional strain. For example, anxiety and depression can develop, and quality of life is reduced because people feel restricted in their daily lives.

Anxiety and depression

Custody can lead to anxiety and depression. Anxiety is a feeling of worry or apprehension and can lead to depressive symptoms such as hopelessness and sadness. Depression describes a state of low mood and reduced energy, emptiness, and despair.

One of the biggest fears people with ulcerative colitis have is public speaking. Often, the fear of contagion arises, which can intensify feelings of anxiety when speaking in public. Many resources are available to help cope, including support groups and therapists.

Reduced quality of life

Ulcerative colitis often leads to a loss of mobility, limitations in work and social activities, and a decline in overall well-being. The impact of ulcerative colitis on a person's quality of life can therefore be extremely debilitating and distressing.

For this reason, it is important for Cu patients to seek treatment and diagnosis immediately so that they can begin to improve their condition and experience a better quality of life.

Coping with psychological consequences

There are various ways people with ulcerative colitis can cope with or prevent the psychological effects of their condition. Some find it helpful to talk about their feelings and experiences. Others manage their symptoms with self-care measures such as rest and hydration.

Some people use various complementary therapies such as yoga, meditation, and counseling. Regular exercise helps to free the mind from burdens. All of these strategies have proven beneficial for the overall well-being of those affected.

Ulcerative colitis and alcohol

Studies indicate that alcohol consumption can worsen symptoms in people with ulcerative colitis. For example, one study found that people who drink alcohol have a significantly higher incidence of bowel obstruction.

If you suffer from ulcerative colitis, you should therefore abstain from alcohol completely or consume it only in small amounts. During acute phases, it is best to avoid alcohol entirely and opt for healthy drinks.

Ulcerative colitis – consequences for life expectancy

With medically supervised drug treatment, you should not expect a reduction in your lifespan. However, in severe cases and if surgery is not performed, a reduction in life expectancy is certainly possible.

Therefore, be sure to see a doctor as soon as you notice the first symptoms. The faster the diagnosis is made, the sooner treatment can begin and your health can be preserved.

Difference between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis:

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are two types of inflammatory bowel diseases. Both are serious conditions, but there are significant differences between them.

Crohn's disease is more common than ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is characterized by inflammatory lesions (ulcers) in the colon or rectum. The lesions can also occur in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, small intestine, and colon. Crohn's disease is located in the gastrointestinal tract.

Conclusion

serious illness

Ulcerative colitis is a serious condition that can cause severe pain and inflammation. It is treated with medication and dietary changes. In severe cases, surgery may also be necessary.

Ulcerative colitis is considered a dangerous inflammatory disease and can lead to severe inflammation of the rectum and colon. If left untreated, the disease is usually fatal. Ulcerative colitis has varying degrees of severity depending on the extent of the inflammation.

Chronic illness

The disease has a chronic course and is not always easy to diagnose, especially not with a self-test. Therefore, the diagnosis is best made by a doctor. The doctor will conduct tests to ensure a correct diagnosis after the patient presents with symptoms.

Because ulcerative colitis is a disease that can severely affect a person's health and quality of life, it is important for patients to seek prompt treatment and diagnosis so they can begin to improve their condition and enjoy a better quality of life.

Final tip for changing your diet

The best way to change your diet if you have ulcerative colitis is to avoid trigger foods. To do this, keep a food diary to help you track which foods trigger your symptoms.

Another way to avoid food triggers is to replace a specific food with a trigger food. For example, try rice, oats, quinoa, or another gluten-free grain instead of wheat products.