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    4. Ulcerative Colitis

    Ulcerative Colitis

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, our gastroenterology specialists use advanced diagnostic testing and a highly personalised approach to diagnose and manage ulcerative colitis. Working collaboratively across specialties, our team develops tailored treatment plans designed around your symptoms, lifestyle and long-term wellbeing.

    • Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulceration in the lining of the colon and rectum. The condition can lead to periods of active symptoms, known as flare-ups, followed by times of remission when symptoms improve or disappear altogether.

      Although ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition, specialist care and ongoing management can help many people achieve good symptom control and maintain their quality of life.

    • Symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary significantly from person to person and may range from mild to severe. Many patients experience intermittent flare-ups, while others may have more persistent symptoms. 

      Ulcerative colitis symptoms include: 

      • Recurring diarrhea, which may be bloody, or contain pus and mucus
      • Stomach pain
      • Having frequent bowel movements (more than once a day)

      You may also experience extreme fatigue, loss of appetite or weight loss.

      In some cases, ulcerative colitis can affect other parts of the body. You may experience: 

      • Painful joints (arthritis flare ups)
      • Mouth ulcers
      • Swollen fat under the skin 
      • Red or sore eyes
      • Bone problems (osteoporosis)

      Stress does not cause ulcerative colitis, but some patients find that emotional stress may contribute to symptom flare-ups. 

    • The exact cause of ulcerative colitis remains unclear, but it is believed to result from a combination of immune system, genetic and environmental factors. 

      Autoimmune Conditions

      Ulcerative colitis is widely considered an autoimmune condition. This means the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue within the colon, leading to ongoing inflammation. 

      Genetics

      A family history of ulcerative colitis or other inflammatory bowel diseases may increase the likelihood of developing the condition, suggesting a genetic component. 

      Environmental factors 

      Research suggests that environmental influences may also contribute to the development of ulcerative colitis. These may include:

      • Urban living environments
      • Air pollution
      • Diets high in ultra-processed foods
      • Certain medications
      • Smoking cessation in some individuals

      However, ulcerative colitis can affect people from all backgrounds and lifestyles.

    • At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, diagnosis begins with a detailed consultation to understand your symptoms, medical history and overall health. Our gastroenterology specialists work closely with radiology, pathology and laboratory teams to provide a comprehensive assessment and timely diagnosis.

      Investigations may include: 

      • A physical examination, looking for signs of anemia and tenderness in the stomach
      • A stool sample, to rule out any infection
      • Blood tests
      • Colonoscopy
      • Sigmoidoscopy (a biopsy, taken from the bowel) 

      You may also be referred to our diagnostics team for: 

      Different conditions require different scans, and you may be recommended several scans as part of our assessment.

    • Ulcerative Colitis treatment is highly individualised and depends on the severity of inflammation, the frequency of flare-ups and the impact on your daily life. The aim of treatment is to control inflammation, relieve symptoms and maintain long-term remission. 

      Treatment may include: 

      Medication

      • Aminosalicylates: reduces inflammation and heals tissue
      • Corticosteroids: used as an alternative to aminosalicylates
      • Immunosuppressants: reduces activity of the immune system

      Mild flare-ups can often be managed at home under specialist guidance. More severe episodes may require hospital-based treatment to prevent complications such as dehydration, severe inflammation or infection. 

      Severe flare-ups may be treated using: 

      • Ciclosporin: reduces activity of the immune system
      • Biologic medicines: reduces inflammation of the intestine
      • JAK inhibitors: blocks enzymes that the immune system relies on to trigger inflammation
      • Ozanimod: reduces the activity of the immune system

      Surgery

      In some cases, surgery may be recommended if symptoms cannot be controlled with medication or complications develop.

      Surgical treatment typically involves removal of the colon and may include:

      • Ileostomy surgery, where the small intestine is diverted to an opening in the abdomen
      • Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (ileoanal pouch surgery), allowing bowel movements to continue through the anus without the need for a permanent external bag

      Where surgery is required, our specialists work closely with experienced colorectal surgeons to ensure comprehensive pre-operative assessment and ongoing post-operative support.

    • Mayo Clinic Healthcare brings the internationally recognised standards of Mayo Clinic to central London, offering patients access to:

      • A highly experienced, multidisciplinary team of specialists
      • Advanced diagnostic technology with rapid turnaround times
      • Evidence-based, personalised treatment plans
      • Seamless coordination across specialties
      • A discreet, world-class clinical environment in the heart of London

      Our approach is centred on delivering clarity, confidence, and continuity of care at every stage of your journey.

    Private health insurance

    We work with all major private health insurers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, Bupa, Health Partners Group, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay options are also available, offering flexibility for both UK-based and international patients. 

    Private assessment

    Mayo Clinic Healthcare specialists are here to help you reach diagnosis for ulcerative colitis accurately and quickly. 

    To make an appointment, call us on +44 (0) 204 654 0583 or fill out our online consultation form. We’re here to help.

    Medically Reviewed by

    Dr Sarmed Sami, Consultant Gastroenterologist

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