Definition:
Ulcerative colitis characterized by inflammation & ulceration of colon & rectum. It occurs at any age but peaks between 15-25 years, often in females.
Clinical features:
- Anorexia
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Malaise
- Fever
- Leukocytosis
- Anemia iron deficiency
- Profuse diarrhea (15-20 stools per day)
- Stool containing blood, mucus & possible pus
- Abdominal cramps
Complications:
- Hemorrhage
- Strictures perforation
- Toxic mega colon
- Colon dilation
- Renal stone
- Conjunctivitis
- Perforation
- Iritis
- Stomatitis
Investigations:
- Fiber optic colon scopy
- Sigmoid scopy
- Barium enema
- CBC
- Stool for blood, culture & sensitivity
Medical Management:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Corticosteroids (Oral/IV)
- Immunosuppressive agents
- Azothropine
- Cobolmin Inj:
Surgical Management:
- Ileostomy
- Ileorectostomy
Nursing Management:
- Advised for high calorie, well balanced diet and sufficient sleep
- Keep rectal area clean, use rectal ointment or Sitz bath