Ulcerative Colitis: Commonly Asked Questions
Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact your daily life. At Vista Speciality Clinic, we provide expert care to help you manage your symptoms and achieve remission. As the best Gastroenterologist in Bangalore, our team is dedicated to providing clear information and effective treatment plans. To schedule a consultation, please book an appointment with us today.
The hallmark symptom of Ulcerative Colitis is Bloody Diarrhea. It occurs due to inflammation and tiny ulcers on the inner lining of the colon, which can bleed. This is often the first symptom that prompts people to seek medical help. If you notice blood in your stools, it is crucial to consult a specialist. The expert team at Vista Speciality Clinic can provide a proper diagnosis.
Yes, Abdominal Cramps are a very common symptom. The inflammation in the colon can cause painful spasms, which often feel like cramping. These cramps may worsen before a bowel movement and improve afterward. If you are experiencing persistent Abdominal Cramps, a visit to a Gastroenterologist near Jayanagar at Vista Speciality Clinic is highly recommended.
Urgency refers to a sudden and strong need to have a bowel movement, often with little to no time to reach a restroom. This is a classic symptom of Ulcerative Colitis, caused by the inflammation making the colon hypersensitive. It can be a very distressing symptom that significantly impacts quality of life. At Vista Speciality Clinic, we can help you manage this symptom and regain control.
While Bloody Diarrhea, Abdominal Cramps, and Urgency are the primary symptoms, other signs can include a feeling of incomplete bowel movements, weight loss, and fatigue. Some people also experience symptoms outside the digestive tract, such as joint pain or skin problems. Our doctors at Vista Speciality Clinic, a leading Gastroenterologist near JP Nagar, consider all of your symptoms to provide a comprehensive diagnosis.
The most definitive method for diagnosing Ulcerative Colitis is a Colonoscopy with Biopsy. This procedure allows your doctor to visually examine the entire colon for signs of inflammation and take a small tissue sample (biopsy) to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the disease. This is a standard Diagnostic Test performed by the expert team at Vista Speciality Clinic.
Stool Tests are essential Diagnostic Tests for Ulcerative Colitis because they help rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as bacterial infections, viruses, or parasites. They can also measure a marker of inflammation (fecal calprotectin), which can indicate the presence of an inflammatory condition like UC. We conduct these tests at Vista Speciality Clinic to ensure an accurate diagnosis before starting treatment.
In addition to a Colonoscopy with Biopsy and Stool Tests, your doctor may also recommend blood tests to check for signs of inflammation or anemia, which are common in UC. Imaging tests like CT scans may also be used in certain situations. The best Gastroenterologist at Banashankari at our clinic will determine the right combination of tests for your condition.
The initial Treatment Options for Ulcerative Colitis typically involve medications that reduce inflammation. Aminosalicylates (5-ASAs) are often the first choice for mild-to-moderate cases. They work by reducing inflammation in the colon and can be taken orally or as an enema. Your doctor at Vista Speciality Clinic will prescribe the right medication based on the location and severity of your disease.
Steroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that are typically used for a short period to manage a flare-up of symptoms. They can quickly provide relief from severe symptoms like Bloody Diarrhea and Abdominal Cramps. However, due to their side effects, they are generally not used for long-term maintenance. The specialists at Vista Speciality Clinic will manage your steroid use carefully to ensure the best outcome.
Colectomy (Surgery), which is the removal of the colon, is generally considered a last resort. It is a curative Treatment Option for Ulcerative Colitis but is only recommended when medication is no longer effective or when complications arise, such as a severe bleed or risk of cancer. Our team at Vista Speciality Clinic will work with you to explore all medical options first before considering surgery.
Don not let Bloody Diarrhea, Abdominal Cramps, and Urgency control your life. At Vista Speciality Clinic, we offer state-of-the-art Diagnostic Tests and personalized Treatment Options to help you achieve remission and improve your quality of life. Book an appointment with the best Gastroenterologist in Bangalore today.
