Problems That Can Occur When Ulcerative Colitis Goes Untreated

Living with ulcerative colitis (UC) can be challenging and frustrating. This chronic inflammatory bowel disease can cause a range of symptoms, including diarrhea and abdominal pain. While UC has no cure, effective treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

At Premier Gastroenterology in Brooksville, Florida, Dr. Rodwan Hiba takes great care in getting patients on the road to optimally living better with UC. Managing UC requires a multifaceted approach that includes medication, dietary changes, stress management, and regular medical monitoring. Additionally, self-care is essential for managing UC, including getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and avoiding triggers that can worsen symptoms.

Left untreated, UC can have serious health consequences. In this post our experts discuss how untreated UC impacts various aspects of your health and well-being. 

Increased colon cancer risk

One of the most concerning complications of untreated UC is an increased risk of developing colon cancer. People with UC have a higher risk of developing colon cancer than those without the condition. The longer a person has had UC, the higher their risk.

When the lining of the colon is continuously inflamed, it can lead to cellular changes that increase the risk of cancerous growths. Regular screening for colon cancer, including colonoscopies, is essential for people with UC, as is appropriately managing their UC. 

Chronic and acute dehydration

Untreated UC can cause chronic diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration. In some cases, dehydration can be severe. Diarrhea can cause you to lose a significant amount of fluids, electrolytes, and nutrients, which can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and malnutrition.

Severe dehydration can cause fatigue, dizziness, confusion, and even loss of consciousness. It's important to stay well hydrated when experiencing diarrhea; in some cases, intravenous fluids may be necessary.

Anemia

Untreated UC can lead to anemia, which occurs when the body doesn't have enough red blood cells. This causes a host of symptoms, including fatigue and shortness of breath. Chronic inflammation and bleeding, as well as malabsorption of nutrients due to diarrhea, can contribute to anemia.

Liver disease

Without appropriate management, people with UC have an increased risk of developing liver disease, including primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). PSC causes inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts in the liver, leading to blockages and liver damage.

Symptoms of PSC include fatigue, itching, and jaundice. There is no cure for PSC, and treatment may include medications to manage symptoms, liver transplantation, or surgery to relieve bile duct obstructions.

Toxic megacolon

Toxic megacolon is a potentially life-threatening UC complication. Keeping UC well managed lowers the risk of this serious conditioin. It occurs when the colon becomes severely inflamed and dilated, leading to a loss of muscle tone and function. This can cause the colon to become distended, which can lead to a perforation or rupture.

Symptoms of toxic megacolon include severe abdominal pain, bloating, fever, and rapid heart rate. It's a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment, including hospitalization and intravenous medications.

If you have UC, it's essential to work closely with a specialist to develop a treatment plan that addresses your individual needs. With the right combination of treatment, lifestyle changes, and self-care, it is possible to live a fulfilling life with UC. 

The Premier Gastroenterology team is in your corner. For comprehensive digestive care, give us a call at 903-945-4512 to schedule an in-person or telehealth visit with Dr. Hiba today.