Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and the development of ulcers in the digestive tract. Symptoms progress over time, caused by inflammation that affects the innermost lining of the large intestine and rectum. As with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis can greatly interfere with daily life and cause complications that need to be addressed. Ulcerative colitis affects the same number of men and women and usually begins before someone turns 30. At DHC, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide array of digestive health conditions, including ulcerative colitis. Learn more about this condition and how we help patients manage their symptoms and live more comfortable lives.
In the past, it was suspected that diet and stress could cause ulcerative colitis, but it has since been determined that these factors may aggravate the condition, but not cause it. A possible cause of ulcerative colitis is an abnormal immune response, where the immune system attacks cells in the digestive tract. Ulcerative colitis is also more common in those who have family members with the disease, but most people with ulcerative colitis do not have a family history of the condition.
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis can range from mild to severe and depend on the type of colitis present. There are four types of ulcerative colitis, each categorized by its location and the severity of symptoms:
Ulcerative colitis is diagnosed through biopsies taken during endoscopic procedures, such as colonoscopy. Your doctor may perform other tests to rule out Crohn’s disease or infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Blood and stool tests may also be performed as part of the diagnostic process, as white blood cells or certain proteins in the stool can indicate ulcerative colitis.
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition, and treatments are focused on reducing inflammation to prevent flare-ups. Diet changes may be recommended, and you should keep track of how certain foods affect you so you have a better idea of what to eliminate from your diet. For mild symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce inflammation and swelling, which can alleviate many symptoms. Stronger medications may be prescribed for more severe symptoms. If your symptoms are debilitating, surgery may be necessary. During a procedure known as a proctocolectomy, the colon and rectum are surgically removed and a pouch is created from the end of the small intestine. The pouch is then attached directly to the anus to allow for normal excrement.
Proper management of ulcerative colitis is key to living a more comfortable life. Without proper treatment, complications can worsen. At DHC, our gastroenterologists will assess your unique situation and determine the best course of action. You can meet with us at one of our three office locations in NJ or via a virtual telemedicine visit, making it easy for those in NJ to get convenient access to comprehensive gastroenterology care. To learn more about ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel disease or to schedule an appointment at DHC, please contact us today.
DHC is proud to offer a wide range of tests and procedures to diagnose and treat all manner of digestive health conditions. Whether you are living with a gastroenterological condition or are experiencing new and uncomfortable symptoms, we are here for you! We are committed to each patient and helping those in NJ stay on top of their digestive health.
We are proud to offer telemedicine care to patients throughout NJ, allowing patients to consult with one of our expert gastroenterologists via a two-way video call. Setting up and completing a telemedicine visit is extremely simple, and all you need to do to get started is give one of our offices a call or contact us by filling out a form.
To all our valued patients at Digestive Healthcare Center and Central Jersey Ambulatory Surgical Center
Your health and safety are important to us. To help protect patients and staff, we have designated Digestive Healthcare Center and Central Jersey Ambulatory Surgical Center as a Patient and Staff “SAFE ZONE.” Our SAFE ZONE is defined by the safety measures we are taking to protect you and our staff from contracting the coronavirus. We are following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Department of Health (DOH) guidelines to limit the spread of the virus by continuously disinfecting all rooms and equipment, using protective barriers, providing personal protective equipment and practicing social distancing. We are testing staff and patients to make sure you are safe. Patients will be asked to provide information if they have been tested.
OFFICE HOURS:
Our Hillsborough and Somerville offices are open and seeing patients for Telemedicine and In-Office visits as needed. Our Warren location is currently closed.
SAFETY FIRST:
CENTRAL JERSEY AMBULATORY SURGICAL CENTER:
Our surgery center is open and performing procedures such as colonoscopies and endoscopies. Please call to schedule an appointment at 908-218-9222. Patients coming in for procedures will be COVID tested prior to their procedure.
PATIENT PORTAL:
To better serve you, all patients must register for our portal by providing us with your email address. You will receive a portal invitation via email which will contain a pin number needed to register for our portal. This will be our main source of communication with you regarding test results, answering clinical questions, and providing important updates.
The Physicians and Staff at Digestive Healthcare Center and Central Jersey Ambulatory Surgical Center wish everyone the best at this trying time.
Stay healthy and safe.