It is a disease in which ulcers are formed by the destruction of the internal wall of the large intestine, mainly the final part of the colon and rectum. It is more frequent between 15 and 40 years of age.
The causes are unknown, although a hereditary component is attributed to it.
It manifests with abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. It may be accompanied by weight loss, fatigue, lack of appetite, dehydration and/or bleeding from the rectum.
Diagnosis is made by a detailed clinical history, focusing on bowel habits and other possible causes for the symptoms. The diagnosis of certainty will be made by colonoscopy.
Treatment includes different types of medications that can be taken alone or in combination: aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressive agents.
It is not a medical emergency but you should consult your physician to obtain a diagnosis of certainty and initiate treatment.
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