What
Is Ulcerative Proctitis?
Ulcerative
proctitis is characterized by swelling,
redness, and ulcerations of the lining
of the rectum (the rectum is the
last seven inches of the large intestine).
The word "ulcerative" is
used because the disease actually
causes the formation of sores on
the inner lining of the rectum. The
cause of ulcerative proctitis is
unknown.
What
Are the Symptoms of Ulcerative Proctitis?
The
symptoms associated with ulcerative
proctitis include: diarrhea, bleeding,
tenesmus (a persistent urge to empty
the bowel whether or not stool is
present), mucus discharge,rectal
pain, constipation. Patients may
notice the passage of blood or mucus
with or without stool. The amount
of bleeding from ulcerative proctitis
is usually small, but it can appear
to be a lot and can be frightening.
All of these symptoms can occur without
warning at any time during the day
or night..
What
Causes Ulcerative Proctitis?
Researchers
are actively trying to find its cause.
Many scientists now believe that
an agent, such as a virus, may cause
a reaction of the body's immune system
which results in inflammation of
the lining of the rectum. Although
the cause of ulcerative proctitis
has not been identified, it is known
that dietary habits or stress do
not cause it. However, people with
the disease may find that busier,
more stressful times aggrevate their
symptoms. Also, ulcerative proctitis
cannot be transmitted from one person
to another.
How
Is Ulcerative Proctitis Detected?
Your
doctor can detect this disease by
a visual exam of the lining of your
rectum using an instrument called
a flexible sigmoidoscope (a lighted,
flexible tube about the thickness
of a finger). This examination is
important because the symptoms of
proctitis may be the same as the
symptoms of many other diseases,
some of which are quite serious.
How
Is Ulcerative Proctitis Treated?
The
treatment of ulcerative proctitis
depends on the extent of the inflammation
and the number of flare-ups you have
had. For mild inflammation medicated
enemas, suppositories, or foam are
usually prescribed. If this is your
first flare-up, the medication is
stopped once the inflammation is
gone. If the inflammation becomes
more severe, oral medication may
also be prescribed. Patients with
repeated episodes are often prescribed
oral medication to reduce the chance
of further episodes. Regular examinations
are important for monitoring your
disease and staying current with
the best approaches for ongoing care
of your ulcerative proctitis.
In
addition to medication changes in
diet may be helpful. A high-fiber
diet and plenty of water or juice
daily are helpful. Patients with
diarrhea often find that avoiding
milk and milk products, spicy foods,
and raw fruits and vegetables will
improve the diarrhea. If you have
questions about how to change your
diet, ask your doctor. Regular visits
with the doctor are important to
adjust your medication as your symptoms
change. Patients who participate
actively in learning how to manage
their disease find the quality of
their life improves.
What
Can I Expect?
You
can expect to lead a normal, active
life. Ulcerative proctitis does not
significantly increase your risk
of developing cancer. Symptoms will
vary from person to person. Some
people have symptoms constantly.
In others, ulcerative proctitis may
be inactive for months or even years
and then flare up without warning.
Regardless of your symptoms pattern,
you will need regular follow-ups
with your physician to monitor changes
in the disease and adjust your medications.
The chances that ulcerative proctitis
will spread to involve the colon
(become ulcerative colitis) are slim
(10-20%).
What
Can I Do to Improve My Condition?
You
can do certain things which may make
your disease easier to live with.
Increase
the amount of fiber in your diet
either through high-fiber foods or
fiber commercial fiber supplements.
Avoid
dairy products. A lactose-free diet
can help to control symptoms of cramping,
gas, diarrhea or abdominal bloating.
Lactose is a sugar found in dairy
products. However, you can now buy
lactose-free milk, yogurt, and ice
cream, as well as products that counteract
lactose in dairy products.
Decrease
stress. Stress and tension can make
your symptoms worse. Relaxation techniques
and changes in lifestyle may help.
Talk
to someone who is experiencing the
same symptoms. The local chapter
of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation
of America (CCFA) is an excellent
resource. The number for the local
chapter is 651-917-2424. The number
for the national organization is
800-932-2423.
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