Ulcerative Colitis Physician in Orlando, FL
Ulcerative Colitis: Manage it, Orlando Patient
Ulcerative colitis is a disease of the large intestine, specifically the colon and rectum. It causes inflammation and sores (ulcers) in the lining of these areas. It is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Ulcerative colitis presents symptoms that are similar to other bowel disorders, including Crohn’s disease.
What does an Ulcerative Colitis physician do?
A UC physician—typically a board-certified gastroenterologist—specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing ulcerative colitis. They help control symptoms, monitor inflammation, adjust medications, and prevent complications.
What are the symptoms of Ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis symptoms are predominantly abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. Other symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Anemia
- Joint pain
- Bleeding of the rectum
- Weight loss
- Failure to thrive (especially in children)
- Loss of body fluids
When should I see a UC specialist?
You should see a specialist if you experience symptoms such as:
- Persistent diarrhea
- Blood or mucus in stools
- Ongoing abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
A specialist can determine if UC or another condition is the cause.
What causes Ulcerative colitis?
Doctors don’t know what causes this disease. It may or may not be related to abnormalities of the immune system that exist in patients with the disease.
At Orlando Gastroenterology, we diagnose ulcerative colitis with testing that includes a physical exam, blood tests, stool sample evaluation, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, barium enemas, CT scans, and x-rays.
How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually includes:
- Colonoscopy with biopsies (most accurate)
- Stool tests to rule out infections
- Blood tests for inflammation indicators
How often should I follow up with a UC specialist?
During active flares: every 4–8 weeks
During remission: every 6–12 months
Your doctor may adjust this depending on symptoms and treatment.
Do I need regular colonoscopies if I have UC?
Yes. Long-term UC increases colon cancer risk. Most specialists recommend:
- A colonoscopy every 1–3 years once you’ve had UC for at least 8 years.
Can diet help manage ulcerative colitis?
Diet does not cause or cure UC, but certain foods may trigger symptoms. Many specialists recommend:
- A low-residue diet during flares
- Avoiding foods that worsen symptoms (e.g., dairy, high-fiber foods during flares, spicy foods)
Should I see a Orlando GI specialist or a general doctor for UC?
A general doctor can start the conversation, but a gastroenterologist is the most qualified to diagnose and manage UC long-term.
Ulcerative colitis treatment
Treatment varies from person to person. Doctors may implement drug therapies, surgery, and hospitalization.
