Ulcerative Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by inflammations and sores called ulcers, that occur in the lining of the rectum and colon. The disease can often be debilitating and may also lead to serious, life-threatening complications. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, tests and diagnosis, and treatments for Ulcerative Colitis.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis after taking a prescription drug, over-the-counter drug or dietary supplement you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Signs & Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative Colitis symptoms can very from mild infections to severe complications of the colon. Initial symptoms include recurrent diarrhea with traces of blood and mucus, abdominal pain, fever, fatigue and severe cramping. More serious Ulcerative Colitis symptoms include Fulminant Colitis, a rare yet life-threatening form that affects the entire colon. In this state, an individual may experience severe pain, profuse diarrhea, extreme dehydration and shock. If complications continue, they may be at risk of colon rupture or Toxic Megacolon.
Causes of Ulcerative Colitis
While Ulcerative Colitis is considered an idiopathic disease, meaning the cause is unknown, it has been linked to the popular acne medication known as Accutane(generic: Amnesteem, Claravis, Sotret). Those who have used Accutane, or the generic forms, may show signs of an increased risk of developing Ulcerative Colitis.
Risk Factors of Ulcerative Colitis
Certain Ulcerative Colitis risk factors that affect the disease include, but are not limited to:
- Age
- Ethnicity
- Family history
- Usage of Accutane (generic: Amnesteem, Claravis, Sotret)
Ulcerative Colitis Complications
- Severe Bleeding
- Perforated colon
- Dehydration
- Liver disease
- Osteoporosis
- Increased risk of colon cancer
- Toxic Megacolon
- Death
Ulcerative Colitis Tests & Diagnosis
Numerous tests can be administered to determine if an individual has Ulcerative Colitis. A gastroenterologist will begin by preforming a comprehensive evaluation that checks a patients physical health and history of complications. Once the information is gathered, doctors can begin radiological testing. The most common forms of testing include colonoscopies and sigmoidoscopes, both of which allow the doctors to view the inner lining of a patients intestine and give a proper diagnosis.
Ulcerative Colitis Treatments & Home Remedies
The majority of Ulcerative Colitis treatments very on the severity of the disease. However, treatments usually include medications to control flare-ups and inflammation of the intestine. Typical treatments require drugs, nutritional supplements, surgery, or a combination of the three.
Do I have an Ulcerative Colitis Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Ulcerative Colitis lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis after taking a prescription drug, over-the-counter drug or dietary supplement, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.