Expert treatment for ulcerative colitis (UC) in Plano and Dallas

At Gastroenterology Specialists of North Texas, we provide expert diagnosis and leading-edge care for ulcerative colitis. Since many stomach and digestive issues have similar symptoms and some people with UC may also have Crohn’s disease (another irritable bowel (IB) condition), diagnosis and treatment by a GI specialist is key to successful treatment. Our gastroenterologists offer the latest testing and treatment services, including minimally invasive surgery, personalized to help you feel better faster.

Ulcerative colitis (UC)

Ulcerative colitis belongs to a group of conditions known as inflammatory bowel diseases. It involves the rectum in all patients, but in some, it affects the entire colon. Up to 10 percent of UC patients may also have Crohn’s disease, another inflammatory bowel (IB) condition. Patients with UC are at increased risk for colon cancer. As with most stomach and digestive disorders, diagnosis by a specialist is key to successfully identifying and treating these conditions. We offer comprehensive testing and treatment for UC, including the latest complex and minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Start feeling better today. Call us at (972) 202-7090.

Testing for UC

A diagnosis of ulcerative colitis requires testing. Common tests that your specialist may order include blood work and stool samples. Less commonly, patients may need X-rays or a CT scan.

To confirm a diagnosis of UC, you will need to have a colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy. These procedures will show if your colon and/or rectum are inflamed. They also allow small tissue samples (biopsies) to be collected, which can be studied to determine if you are positive or negative for UC.

Treatment for UC

Our goals in treating UC patients are to help them feel better as quickly as possible and to help prevent future flare-ups. We have several treatment options that we can use to accomplish these goals.

Medications

There are a variety of drugs used to treat UC. They fall into four general categories and work in different ways to help reduce inflammation. They include:

  • Aminosalicylates
  • Biologics
  • Immunomodulators
  • Steroids

Your GI specialist will customize your care plan to find the medication(s) that works best for you.

Surgery for ulcerative colitis

There are several reasons that your GI specialist might recommend surgery for UC, including if medications didn’t work for you or if any side effects were too severe. Others include an enlarged colon (toxic megacolon) or if you are diagnosed with colon cancer. If surgery is recommended, we will thoroughly review your options with you and create a personalized care plan based on your unique needs and health goals.

The most common surgery for UC is a total proctocolectomy, which involves removing the entire colon and rectum and rerouting everything through the small intestine. This procedure is generally considered to cure UC.