Nonspecific ulcerative colitis is a fairly common disease, which is accompanied by inflammation of the mucous membrane of the colon and rectum with gradual, progressive destructive changes. Today, this disease is a very serious problem, since its exact causes and effective methods of complete cure have not yet been identified.
Nonspecific ulcerative colitis and its causes
As already mentioned, there is no single opinion on this matter. The exact causes of the disease are still unknown. Although the researchers were able to identify some risk groups:
- viral infections are thought to be the cause;
- do not exclude the role of heredity;
- in some cases, ulcerative colitis can be caused by an intense allergic reaction, as a result of which the immune system begins to attack its own cells;
- it is believed that such a disease can be caused by a violation of the integrity of the intestinal mucosa;
- there is also evidence that smokers are four times more likely to have colitis than non-smokers;
- There is also a connection with surgical intervention - colitis can be triggered by the removal of the appendix or tonsils.
Nonspecific ulcerative colitis: symptoms
The most striking sign of the disease are considered stool disorders. Patients often complain of diarrhea, which is especially worse in the evening and at night. It is worth noting that with colitis in the feces there are always impurities of mucus and blood. Sometimes patients also complain of frequent urge to defecate and a feeling of incomplete bowel movement .
Severe bleeding is rare, as large blood veins or arteries are not damaged during the illness. But the constant loss of a small amount of blood along with feces can cause anemia.
Nonspecific ulcerative colitis is rarely accompanied by pain. However, some patients complain of discomfort in the lower abdomen or mild cramping pain that occurs before defecation.
Naturally, the disease affects the work of the whole organism. Colitis is accompanied by increased fatigue, loss of appetite, rapid weight loss, weakness and malaise. Sometimes patients complain of bloating and abdominal pain during palpation. In especially severe cases, colitis leads to dehydration, a violation of the water-salt balance, severe weakness and loss of muscle tone.
Nonspecific ulcerative colitis: diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis of such a disease is a rather lengthy process. First of all, the patient should pass stool samples for analysis. Colonoscopy, irrigoscopy and sigmoidoscopy are also recommended, which allow you to assess the condition of the intestinal mucosa. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe a biopsy.
As for the treatment methods, it all depends on the severity and stage of development of the disease. At the initial stages, exclusively conservative treatment is used. Patients are shown taking anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. Sometimes corticosteroids are used, in particular, the prednisone medication. During periods of exacerbation of colitis, the daily amount of drugs can increase.
In severe conditions, if conservative methods do not have any effect, the patient may be prescribed surgery. The operation is indicated in cases where ulcerative colitis is accompanied by extensive bleeding. And also if there is a pronounced infectious lesion or intestinal rupture.
Nonspecific ulcerative colitis: diet
In fact, the treatment of such a disease does not require any strict diet. It is only necessary to observe a few simple rules that will help reduce discomfort and stop the exacerbation. People with a similar diagnosis are advised to give preference to light food, which is quickly absorbed by the intestines. The diet should be dominated by eggs, potatoes, fish, rice, etc.
But you should refuse to use milk and dairy products - this will help relieve symptoms such as bloating and diarrhea.
Of course, patients with colitis should be constantly monitored by a doctor.