Ulcerative Colitis: Most Effective Supplements

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) limited to the mucosa, continuously affecting the rectum and colon. This condition evolves in flares, interspersed with periods of remission. Its exact origin is still poorly understood, but it is likely multifactorial, involving dysregulation of the immune system in response to environmental factors and the gut microbiota, in genetically predisposed individuals.

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of UC involves several factors: • Genetic: A family history of IBD is the main risk factor. The risk of developing the disease is significantly higher in first-degree relatives of affected patients. • Tobacco: Smoking is a protective factor against UC, contrary to Crohn’s disease. • Appendectomy: A history of appendectomy, especially before the age of 20, is associated with a less severe course of UC. • Gut Microbiota: Dysbiosis, an imbalance between protective and pathogenic bacteria, is often observed in UC patients.

Etiologies

The etiologies of UC are not yet fully elucidated, but several factors contribute to the development of the disease: • Genetic Factors: Genetic mutations, particularly those affecting genes related to immune regulation, increase predisposition to the disease. • Environmental Factors: The Western lifestyle, marked by processed diets and excessive hygiene, as well as the use of certain medications, are suspected to play a triggering role. • Immunological Factors: UC manifests as a dysfunctional immune response, where the immune system inappropriately attacks intestinal mucosa cells, causing chronic inflammation.

Symptoms

Digestive: Bloody mucoid diarrhea, abdominal pain, tenesmus (frequent and painful urge to defecate), and cramps (abdominal pain followed by false urges). Extra-digestive: Scleritis, episcleritis, uveitis (eye inflammation), erythema nodosum (skin inflammation), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (biliary tract inflammation). General Condition Alteration: Fever, anemia, fatigue.

Complications

The complications of UC can be severe: • Severe Acute Colitis: A medico-surgical emergency, it can lead to toxic megacolon or colonic perforation. • Higher Risk of Colorectal Cancer: Especially in pancolic forms (extensive colon involvement) and in patients with associated sclerosing cholangitis. • Deep Vein Thromboses: Increased thromboembolic risk during flares.

Treatment

The treatment of UC aims to control inflammatory flares and maintain remission: • Salicylate Medications (5-ASA): First-line treatment for mild to moderate forms. They can be administered orally or locally. • Corticotherapy: Used to induce remission during moderate to severe flares. • Immunosuppressants (Thiopurines): Indicated in cases of dependency or failure of corticotherapy. • Biotherapies (Anti-TNF alpha, Vedolizumab): Used in severe refractory forms or to maintain remission in corticosteroid-dependent patients. • Surgery: In cases of complicated severe acute colitis or resistance to medical treatment, colectomy may be necessary.