Best Ulcerative Colitis Doctors in Mumbai

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a chronic condition falling under the category of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It results in inflammation and causes ulcers in the colon's lining. The exact triggers for UC remain unclear but are speculated to be a mixture of genetic predispositions and environmental influences. These factors could range from a patient's diet to exposure to pollutants or even tobacco smoke. UC doesn't have distinct stages, but its severity can fluctuate, potentially leading to life-threatening complications in severe cases such as fulminant UC.

In Mumbai, one of India's busiest cities, lifestyle factors like stress, diet, and exposure to various pollutants may contribute to the onset or aggravation of UC. It's crucial for residents to seek advice from the best doctors for ulcerative colitis available in the city. In Mumbai, specialists for colitis flare-ups are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and treatment options for managing this condition effectively.

Types/Stages of Ulcerative Colitis

While UC doesn't distinctly categorise into 'stages, the best doctors for UC classify it based on the location and extent of inflammation:

• Proctitis: Inflammation is limited only to the rectum.

• Proctosigmoiditis: Inflammation impacts the rectum and lower end of the colon.

• Left-sided Colitis: Inflammation extends from the rectum up through the sigmoid and descending colon.

• Pancolitis: Inflammation affects the entire colon.

• Fulminant Colitis: This is a severe form of UC impacting the entire colon.

  Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis:

The symptoms associated with UC largely depend on the inflammation's extent and location within the colon. Common symptoms include:

• Diarrhoea, often with blood or pus

• Abdominal discomfort and pain

• Urgency or a constant urge to pass stool

• Fatigue or extreme tiredness

• Weight loss without any apparent reason

  Tests to Diagnose Ulcerative Colitis

Specialists for colitis flare-ups recommend a comprehensive approach to diagnose UC:

• Blood Tests: To detect anaemia or signs of infection.

• Stool Test: To rule out other disorders like bacterial infections.

• Colonoscopy: Allows for a visual examination of the entire colon.

• Sigmoidoscopy: For examining the rectum and lower colon.

• Imaging Tests: Like CT scans for detailed images of the colon.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Ulcerative Colitis at Apollo Hospitals in Mumbai

Several options, including medication, lifestyle alterations, and surgery, are available at Apollo Hospitals, Mumbai:

• Medication: Includes Aminosalicylates (5-ASAs), Corticosteroids, Immunomodulators, Biologics, and Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors aiming to reduce inflammation.

• Lifestyle Changes: Dietary alterations, maintaining a food diary, weight management, and regular exercise can help manage UC symptoms.

• Surgery: In severe cases where medications prove ineffective or complications arise, surgery for removing the entire colon and rectum may be an option. This is considered the only definitive cure for UC.