For individuals showing signs and symptoms that are consistent with ulcerative colitis, doctors may perform the following tests to confirm a diagnosis:‍

Endoscopic procedures

• Colonoscopy: A procedure to look at the inside of the colon and rectum using a colonoscope, which is a long, flexible tube with a small video camera at the end.

• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A procedure that involves inserting a sigmoidoscope, which is a thin, flexible tube, into the rectum to examine the lower portion of the large intestine.

Lab tests

• Blood Tests: Can indicate whether you have signs of infection or have anemia, a disease in which there aren't enough red blood cells to carry enough oxygen to tissues.

• Stool Tests: Can indicate whether white blood cells or certain proteins are present in your stool, both of which may be signs of ulcerative colitis. This test can also detect infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

While there is no known cure for UC, various treatment options and medications are available that can reduce signs and symptoms.

Medications

Explore the following medications that can effectively help manage UC:

• Aminosalicylates (5-ASA): This drug can be taken topically (via the rectum) or orally to reduce inflammation in the bowel lining.

• Steroids: Steroids can help quickly reduce inflammation during a flare-up and can be taken orally, through an IV, or topically.

• Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressants slow your immune system to stop the immune response that is causing the colon and rectum to swell. These can be taken orally or by injection.

• Biologic Medicines: Biologic medicines block parts of the immune system, reducing more severe inflammation. These can be taken through injection or an IV and can be used in combination with an immunosuppressant. Examples of biologics include, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, Entyvio (monoclonal antibody), and Stelara (IL-23 and IL-12 blocker).

• Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitors: This is a medicine that blocks JAKs, which are proteins that activate the body’s immune response. These can be taken orally, usually for patients with moderate to severe UC.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be recommended for patients with UC to help alleviate symptoms. Below, you'll find information about a few surgery options for those with UC:

• Proctocolectomy: Removal of the colon and rectum.

• Proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (J-pouch surgery): The colon and rectum are removed, and an internal pouch is created, eliminating the need for a permanent external ostomy.

• Proctocolectomy with end ileostomy: The colon, rectum, and anus are removed, and an end ileostomy is created to allow waste to exit the body into an external ostomy bag. Patients wear the ostomy bag and empty it several times per day.
  

These examples do not encompass all possibilities, as surgeons may do these procedures differently.

Diet and lifestyle changes could also be necessary for treatment

Some foods may make symptoms worse when the condition is active, but diet does not cause ulcerative colitis. Your doctor might suggest dietary changes depending on your symptoms, as well as vitamins and dietary supplements.

If you're interested in learning more about nutritional therapy for people with IBD, you can visit Nutritional Therapy for IBD Patient Pathway. This website is a resource for individuals with Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis to help support healthy diet and lifestyle changes.
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