Ulcerative colitis is a progressive inflammatory bowel disease that affects the innermost lining of the large intestine, causing inflammation, irritation, and ulcers in the colon and rectum. Living with ulcerative colitis can be challenging, but with time people learn to deal with the flare-ups and get (somewhat) used to the symptoms. While you may experience similar symptoms during flare-ups, there is still the need to monitor them closely so you can identify any unusual symptoms and/or complications that need emergency medical help.
Life-threatening emergency situations with ulcerative colitis are rare. However, there can still be certain serious complications that need immediate attention. It’s only wise to educate yourself about such emergencies, so you can recognize them.
Following are some ulcerative colitis complications that require immediate medical help:
Fulminant Colitis
Resulting from uncontrolled inflammation, fulminant colitis is a UC complication that causes excessive swelling in the colon. The most common symptoms of fulminant colitis include severe stomach pain, high fever, frequent bowel movements (more than 10 per day), and heavy rectal bleeding.
The condition is usually treated with high doses of corticosteroids.
Toxic Megacolon
If fulminant colitis is left untreated, it can lead to a life-threatening condition called toxic megacolon. The condition is characterized by the abnormal dilation of the colon, which leads to severe abdominal distention. As a result, the patient is unable to excrete gas and feces from the body. If the condition is not treated immediately, the gas and feces continue to build up in the colon, putting you at the risk of rupturing your large intestine, which is life-threatening.
Common symptoms of toxic megacolon include severe stomach pain, excessive bloating, reduced bowel movements, and abdominal tenderness. The symptoms are also typically accompanied by high fever, increased heart rate, vomiting, and dehydration.
Perforated Colon
Uncontrolled inflammation can weaken the lining of the colon, which then can put ulcerative colitis patients at the risk of developing a hole in the intestinal wall. The condition is called perforated colon or bowel perforation and requires emergency treatment, as it allows the intestinal bacteria to spread into the stomach and cause infection.
Common signs of a perforated colon include severe abdominal pain accompanied with heavy rectal bleeding and high fever. Patients may also experience nausea, vomiting, and chills. The condition can only be treated with a surgery.
The Final Word
Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic disease that can make your life challenging. While medications and lifestyle modifications can help reduce flare-ups and prevent the worsening of symptoms, it is important to keep an eye out for any signs of potential complications. Get in touch with your doctor as soon as you notice any new symptoms or rush to an emergency room if your symptoms worsen and you experience severe diarrhea, stomach/abdominal pain, heavy rectal bleeding, and high fever.
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