Ulcerative proctitis is characterized by the inflammation of the rectum. This write-up provides information on the causes, symptoms, and treatment of this inflammatory bowel disease.
Ulcerative colitis is a medical condition associated with the inflammation of the large intestine. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that is characterized by the formation on ulcers in the inner lining of the large intestine. Ulcerative colitis is classified into subtypes, depending on the location of the inflammation.
It is categorized as universal, when the inflammation occurs on the entire length of the colon. When the rectum and the sigmoid colon gets inflamed, one is diagnosed with proctosigmoiditis. Ulcerative proctitis is a milder form of colitis that is said to occur when the inflammation is only restricted to the rectum. The inflammation of the rectum might be a precursor to colitis.
Causes and Symptoms
The reason why the inflammation is restricted to just the rectum has not been determined yet. It is believed that some people might be genetically predisposed to this inflammatory disease. Studies are still going on to find out if the inflammation of the rectum is an immune response to the presence of viruses or antigens. Though the inflammation is restricted to the rectum, it could give rise to symptoms such as:
- Rectal bleeding
- Rectal pain
- Frequent urge to empty the bowel
- Discomfort after a bowel movement
- A sensation of incomplete evacuation of bowel
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Mucous discharge
Though rectal bleeding is not of such an extent that would require a blood transfusion, one might be in a lot of discomfort during flare ups.
Treatment
A visual examination of the colon is conducted for diagnosing this condition. A flexible tube called sigmoidoscope is inserted into the rectum to examine the extent of inflammation. Colonoscopy procedure might also be conducted to the rule out other inflammatory bowel diseases. Doctors might also take samples from the inner lining of the bowel to conduct a biopsy. The patient might not experience the symptoms on a regular basis; however, this is a chronic disease, and there could be flare-ups any time.
The symptoms of this condition can be managed with the help of non steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, steroids, or immunomodulators. Enema or rectal administration of corticosteroids might be recommended sometimes. Doctors might also follow a symptomatic approach when it comes to medicines. If the person is affected by diarrhea, anti-diarrheal medicines will be prescribed. Besides the use of medicines, one might also need to make certain life-style related changes.
Following a diet that is high in fiber will help in regularizing the bowel movements. The patient is also required to refrain from excessive consumption of coffee, alcohol, dairy products, spicy foods, or foods that cause inflammation. If you feel that you experience flare-ups every time you consume a particular food, it would be better to exclude it from your diet. If you are not sure about the diet that must be followed, it would be better to consult a dietitian.
If you have been diagnosed with this condition, make sure that you follow the treatment regimen properly. Drug therapy coupled with lifestyle-related changes can help you manage the symptoms of this inflammatory condition successfully.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
