The fifteenth and final of series of Autoimmune Disorders. My reasons for this series is twofold. First, to make people aware of the many Autoimmune Disorders and to give some history of the well known or more prevalent ones. It is noted that 1 in 5 Americans have been diagnosed with at least one Autoimmune Disorder, of which 75% are women. Second, allowing people to be aware, especially those who are affected by Autoimmune Disorders, that they don’t need to live with the residual aches and pains, inflammation, stress, depression, and anxiety. There are alternative options that work alongside conventional therapies. My focus, as a Reiki Master Teacher & Practitioner and Wellness Advocate, is to educate and better help those who are suffering needlessly. I teach a class on the benefits of Reiki Energy Healing for those who have been diagnosed with Autoimmune Disorders. For more information and to register, please contact me at 860-357-5263.
What is ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a disease that causes inflammation and sores (ulcers) in the lining of the large intestine (colon ). It usually affects the lower section (sigmoid colon) and the rectum. But it can affect the entire colon. In general, the more of the colon that’s affected, the worse the symptoms will be.
The disease can affect people of any age. But most people who have it are diagnosed before the age of 30.
What causes ulcerative colitis?
Experts aren’t sure what causes it. They think it might be caused by the immune system overreacting to normal bacteria in the digestive tract. Or other kinds of bacteria and viruses may cause it.
You are more likely to get ulcerative colitis if other people in your family have it.
What are the symptoms?
The main symptoms are:
Some people also may have a fever, may not feel hungry, and may lose weight. In severe cases, people may have diarrhea 10 to 20 times a day.
The disease can also cause other problems, such as joint pain, eye problems, or liver disease.
In most people, the symptoms come and go. Some people go for months or years without symptoms (remission). Then they will have a flare-up. About 5 to 10 out of 100 people with ulcerative colitis have symptoms all the time.1
How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed?
Doctors ask about the symptoms, do a