Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a disease where the large intestine or bowel (colon) mucosal lining develops chronic inflammation. It affects only the colon and is associated with formation of ulcers. In some cases, only the rectum or lowest most end of the colon is involved and this is called ulcerative proctitis.
There are general symptoms, bowel- specific symptoms and other symptoms that affect distant sites other than the bowel:
The doctor will perform a thorough physical examination of your entire body, particularly the abdomen and the rectum. The skin, mucous membranes, eyes or joints will also be checked to assess for signs of inflammation.
During the colonoscopy, tissue samples of the inflammed colon can be taken for further testing.
In our local Singapore population, UC is uncommon and occurs in six out of every 100,000 individuals.
The treatment will depend on the severity and type of the disease. Medical treatment options include oral 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) drugs, antibiotics, corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents and immunomodulators such as infliximab.
It is important to understand that UC is a chronic disease but can remain controlled with careful medical attention and ongoing monitoring.
There may be frequent visits to the doctor initially to bring the disease under control. Long-term monitoring is required.
In general, patients with UC do not require a special diet. A balanced diet providing the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals should be the goal.
A long-term complication of UC is the development of colon cancer. This risk is higher in patients where the entire colon is diseased and in patients who have suffered UC for longer period of time. For early detection of colon cancer, you may be recommended to undergo screening colonoscopy.
