Subscribe
Colitis
Ulcerative Colitis Symptom Characteristics
Ulcerative colitis is increasingly seen in clinical settings, especially among younger patients in gastroenterology. The symptoms typically include abdominal discomfort and abnormal stool, characterized by pain and distension in the lower left abdomen, and changes in bowel habits. Generally, the frequency of stool increases, often occurring more than a dozen times, at least six times or more. The stool characteristics are also indicative, generally appearing bloody and loose. Therefore, patients with ulcerative colitis need standardized diagnosis and treatment. The treatment mainly consists of two types: the first is lifestyle and dietary management; the second is medication. For diet, it is recommended that patients eat easily digestible, low-residue, high-quality protein foods to enhance nutritional support. Medicinal options may include drugs that regulate intestinal flora, protect the gastrointestinal mucosa, and others like amino salicylates. However, if complications such as gastrointestinal perforation, obstruction, or bleeding occur, surgical treatment is recommended. (Please consult a doctor for specific medication usage and do not self-medicate.)
Which department should I go to for colitis?
If it is colitis, the patient has symptoms such as loose stools, increased frequency of defecation, and unformed stools. In such cases, it is first recommended to visit the gastroenterology department. After an interview and physical examination by a doctor, a colonoscopy can be performed based on the patient's condition to clarify the diagnosis. If the patient has symptoms such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and anemia in addition to the above, they can visit either the gastroenterology department or the general surgery department. Generally, the examinations for colitis include stool tests and colonoscopy. Therefore, when going to the hospital, if the patient has colitis, the first choice should be the department of gastroenterology.