Ulcerative Colitis Specialist

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis – also referred to as colitis or proctitis – is a disease that affects the large intestine, resulting in inflammation and sores. Most patients experience these conditions in the rectum and lower portion of the colon, although it can affect any part of the large intestine. Inflammation in the colon causes diarrhea and, over time, kills the cells lining the colon. In spots where the lining has been compromised, ulcers form and produce pus.

Ulcerative colitis is one of many conditions under the banner of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). It is sometimes confused with similar conditions like Crohn’s disease. There are two main differences between the conditions: ulcerative colitis causes a deeper inflammation in the intestinal wall and typically affects the large intestine, although it may be present in other parts of the GI tract.

If you are currently experiencing digestive issues, contact us to make an appointment with Dr. Tabib today. He can diagnose and treat all conditions of the GI tract, including ulcerative colitis.

Causes of Ulcerative Colitis

Because inflammation is often a natural reaction to a virus or bacterial infection, many doctors postulate that ulcerative colitis is simply an overreaction by the body’s own immune system. This is the leading theory about the cause of ulcerative colitis, although it has not been proven. Patients with ulcerative colitis have immune system abnormalities, although it is not clear if this condition precedes or results from the disease. Emotional distress and diet can trigger symptoms, although neither of these factors causes the disease.

Other medications may be used to alleviate symptoms, including pain, diarrhea, and infection.

Somewhere between 25 and 40 percent of ulcerative colitis patients require surgery at some point. These procedures are used to remove the colon. This treatment is usually recommended for patients whose condition is unresponsive to medication or who have adverse reactions to the medication. It is also used in cases of severe illness, colon rupture, massive bleeding, or the risk of cancer.

Today, gastroenterology conditions can be treated effectively. We provide everyone a personalized gastroenterology treatment plan to meet your unique needs and improve your quality of life. Contact our gastroenterology and hepatology center to schedule a consolation with Los Angeles’ preferred Gastroenterologist– Dr. Tabib.

Dr. Tabib’s completed his postgraduate fellowship, residency, and internships at the UCLA/Cedar-Sinai Medical Center.