Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the lining of the large bowel (colon) and rectum. It causes inflammation and ulceration of the bowel lining, resulting in symptoms such as persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain and rectal bleeding. The severity of the condition varies between children, with some experiencing mild intermittent symptoms whilst others develop more extensive inflammation requiring ongoing specialist treatment.
Ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many children achieve long periods of remission and are able to lead healthy, active lives with normal growth and development.
The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown. Current research suggests it develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the bowel, causing chronic inflammation. A combination of genetic susceptibility, immune system dysfunction and environmental factors is thought to contribute to the development of the condition. It is important to understand that ulcerative colitis is not caused by poor diet or parenting, although certain foods may worsen symptoms during a flare up.
Symptoms often develop gradually and vary depending on the extent of bowel inflammation.
Common symptoms include:
• Persistent diarrhoea, often containing blood or mucus
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• An urgent need to open the bowels
• Rectal bleeding
• Weight loss
• Poor appetite
• Fatigue
• Poor growth or faltering growth
• Delayed puberty
• Anaemia
Some children may also develop inflammation outside the bowel, affecting the joints, skin, eyes or liver. These are known as extraintestinal manifestations and can occur before or after bowel symptoms develop.
There is no single test for ulcerative colitis. Diagnosis is based on your child’s symptoms, clinical examination and a combination of investigations designed to assess bowel inflammation whilst excluding other causes of diarrhoea and rectal bleeding.
Investigations may include:
• Blood tests
• Stool tests, including faecal calprotectin
• Colonoscopy with biopsies
• Gastroscopy where appropriate
• MRI scanning or abdominal ultrasound
These investigations help determine the extent and severity of inflammation and allow your consultant to distinguish ulcerative colitis from Crohn’s disease and other gastrointestinal conditions.
Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, control symptoms, achieve remission and prevent future flare ups. The most appropriate treatment depends on the severity of your child’s disease and the extent of bowel involvement.
Treatment may include:
• Aminosalicylate (5-ASA) medicines
• Corticosteroids
• Immunomodulator medicines
• Biologic therapies
• Nutritional support
• Regular monitoring and follow up
In a small number of children with severe disease or complications, surgery may be recommended if medical treatment is no longer effective.
At the Paediatric Gut Investigation Clinic, our consultant paediatric gastroenterologists provide comprehensive assessment, diagnosis and ongoing management for children with ulcerative colitis. We offer access to specialist investigations including blood tests, stool tests, abdominal ultrasound, gastroscopy and colonoscopy, enabling us to develop an individualised treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.
Our private clinic in Charlwood is perfectly located to see patients from all nearby areas, including Chichester, Banstead, Dorking, Epsom, Guildford, Redhill, Southampton, Portsmouth, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone, and Epsom.
If you are concerned that you child is suffering from Ulcerative Colitis, please book an appointment with us today via the form below or, alternatively, please call us on 0129 3365012.
To book an initial appointment with our Paediatric Team please click on book now or call us today on +44(0)129 3365012.
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