Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes ulcers and inflammation in the lining of the large intestine [colon and rectum]. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. It is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the gut microbes in the intestines, causing it to be inflamed. Apart from the gastrointestinal system, research suggests a connection between ulcerative colitis and various other health conditions. In this article, let's dive in to understand how ulcerative colitis acts as a trigger that impacts other disorders.
Ulcerative Colitis and Associated Health Conditions
1. Arthritis and Joint Disorders:
Various types of arthritis affect several joints of the body: arms, legs, wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles. The severity of pain depends upon the inflammation of the colon.
The immune system becomes overactive in the conditions of ulcerative colitis. It produces various cytokines that affect the joints, causing inflammation and arthritis. The primary treatment involves treating the underlying cause in the colon, which further helps relieve joint pain. Perfect coordination between the gastroenterologist and rheumatologist is necessary for complete care to help relieve pain.
2. Skin Disorders and Ulcerative Colitis:
Imbalance in gut microbes and flare-up immune system causes skin rashes and other dermatological conditions associated with ulcerative colitis. It includes:
- Erythema nodosum
- Pyoderma gangrenosum
- Psoriasis
- Vitiligo
- Cutaneous vasculitis
Treating the underlying ulcerative colitis is the first step in managing skin disorders. However, treatment to these various skin conditions also includes,
- Taking corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Clean the affected area to reduce inflammation
- Use mild cleansers and moisturizers to create a protective barrier to skin
- Always use an SPF sunscreen to protect the skin from UV rays
3. Liver Involvement in Ulcerative Colitis:
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis causes scarring of the bile duct. It causes bile to drain from the liver into the intestines, causing inflammation. Fatty liver disease is another complication of UC, causing increased fat deposits in the liver. Regular monitoring of liver function tests and timely monitoring of symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis and liver disorders ensures comprehensive care in subsiding liver involvement in UC patients
4. Ocular Complications and Ulcerative Colitis:
Due to the autoimmune nature of ulcerative colitis, various cytokines, tumor necrosis factor, and interleukins are elevated and may cause various ocular manifestations such as uveitis, scleritis, and keratopathy. Eye drops containing corticosteroids can help to manage symptoms; however, comprehensive care between ophthalmologist and gastroenterologist can help reduce the symptoms.
5. Cardiovascular disorders and ulcerative colitis:
Imbalance in the gut microbiota and systemic inflammation causes increased immune factors such as necrosis factor, calprotectin causes atherosclerosis and other related diseases, including coronary artery disease, stroke, etc. medications to lower cholesterol level and antiplatelets may be started in these conditions.
Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis with Medicines
The pharmacotherapy of ulcerative colitis plays a crucial role in the management of inflammation, reduces remission, and helps to alleviate symptoms. However, diet management also becomes crucial in overcoming the autoimmune disorder. Some of the treatment options include:
1. Aminosalicylates: These medications are preferred as first-line therapy for UC. These medications help reduce inflammation and help heal. Examples of some aminosalicylates include sulfasalazine, balsalazide, and mesalamine.
2. Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids such as prednisolone may be prescribed due to potent anti-inflammatory effects in moderate to severe inflammatory conditions. They cannot be used long-term due to their potential side effects.
3. Immunomodulators: Medications like Xeljanz 5 mg Tablet reduces the activity of the immune system, reducing inflammation and preventing flare ups. However, these medicines make them more prone to secondary infections.
4. Biology: They are a newer class of medications that target the proteins of the immune system. Targeted therapies such as infliximab and adalimumab block specific immune pathways involved in UC, relieving some individuals.
There are various treatment options available; consulting healthcare professionals and deciding the right and appropriate regimen is effective in managing ulcerative colitis.
Comprehensive Care for Individuals with UC and Associated Conditions
Mental Health and Ulcerative Colitis:
UC can cause symptoms like exhaustion, regular diarrhea, and stomach pain, which can interfere with day-to-day activities. These symptoms may make it more difficult for a person to work, interact with others, and engage in enjoyable activities, which may cause frustration and feelings of loneliness, leading to stress and anxiety. The development of coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness practices, counseling, stress-reduction tactics, and support groups, can aid people with UC in better managing the psychological effects of their illness.
Metabolic Health and Ulcerative Colitis:
UC can result in nutritional deficits because of autoimmune conditions and malabsorption, diarrhea, and decreased appetite during flare-ups. The general state of health and metabolic functions may be impacted by these deficits. Keeping a balanced diet and treating particular dietary deficits are critical components of UC metabolic health management.
Reproductive Health Considerations and UC:
Fertility is not directly impacted by UC but may be impacted by conditions like persistent inflammation and some medications used to treat ulcerative colitis. Certain medications that are prescribed to treat UC might not be safe to take while pregnant or nursing. It is always safe to discuss the medication regimen with healthcare providers in these special considerations.
Bone Health and Ulcerative Colitis:
Long-term use of medications for ulcerative colitis, such as corticosteroids, can pave the way to decreased bone density, fractures, and increased risk of arthritis. Dietary supplements with high calcium and vitamin D can be recommended for patients with an increased risk of bone fractures.
Respiratory Health and Ulcerative Colitis:
Chronic inflammation and the use of immunosuppressant medications for the management of ulcerative colitis can cause decreased immune response and make more prone to various infections, including respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia, COPD, etc.
Conclusion
In summary, the relationship between ulcerative colitis and other medical disorders creates a need for a comprehensive and personalized approach to treatment. It also marks the need for collaborative care between health experts of various departments along with gastroenterology to address the various health issues and complications in people with ulcerative colitis and related disorders. Comprehensive treatment approaches and further research studies become vital in further exploring and managing various disorders caused by ulcerative colitis.