How debilitating is ulcerative colitis?
On One Hand: Debilitating SymptomsUlcerative colitis, an irritable bowel disease, can be debilitating and life threatening in severe cases. A patient with ulcerative colitis can endure chronic flare-ups of painful abdominal cramping and frequent diarrhea with bleeding. Anemia, weight loss, severe dehydration, inflammation of the eyes, skin and joints with arthritis-like symptoms can develop.On the Other: Treatments and Normal LifeTreatments are available to reduce potentially debilitating symptoms in an ulcerative colitis patient. anti-inflammatory medicine, immune system suppressors, iron supplements, pain relievers and anti-diarrhea medicine can give relief. In extreme cases, surgery to remove the colon and rectum will be performed to eliminate the disease.Bottom LineUlcerative colitis can be successfully maintained in most patients. Treatments are available to manage symptoms to prevent debilitating effects of the disease.
