Medical Concerns You Should Have About Ulcerative Colitis

Arthritis

Ulcerative colitis may include symptoms outside of the bowel. Arthritis is characterized by inflammation of the joints. It affects approximately twenty-five percent of people with ulcerative colitis, including the young and old. Severity may range from peripheral arthritis, which is characterized by mild joint pain and inflammation, to a debilitating form of arthritis known as ankylosing spondylitis, in which the affected person suffers from extreme loss of flexibility in the low back. Anti-inflammatory prescription medications and physical therapy may help alleviate pain.

Uveitis

Some individuals who have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis may also develop uveitis, which is an eye disorder that occurs when the pigmented part of the eye becomes inflamed. Uveitis can lead to vision loss and glaucoma if left untreated. Colitis suffers may also develop tender or dry eyes. Dry eyes are usually treated with prescription eye drops and vitamin A supplements, which are antioxidants that may reduce inflammation in the eye. Managing ulcerative symptoms can also reduce dry or inflamed eyes.