Ulcerative Colitis Raleigh, NC
One of the most common types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is ulcerative colitis. Raleigh, NC residents may experience symptoms from ulcerative colitis, but some may experience no symptoms from ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC. Most often, those suffering from ulcerative colitis (UC) can go on to live happy and productive lives.
First established in 1986, Cary Gastro provides a full spectrum of gastrointestinal and digestive care to those suffering from ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC. We’ve been helping patients for over 30 years, and pride ourselves on providing quality, comprehensive care at all of our office locations, servicing digestive and gastrointestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis, in Raleigh, NC.
More About Ulcerative Colitis in Raleigh, NC
Ulcerative colitis (UC) refers to a group of diseases known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Crohn’s disease is the other most common one. All of these diseases affect the GI tract. Ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC occurs when the lining of the large intestine (also referred to as the colon), the rectum, or both, become inflamed. Ulcers form on the lining, which is why the disease is called ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC can affect the entire colon; however, it typically begins in the rectum and spreads upward. Even though there may be many sores and ulcers, those with ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC may not feel any pain nor notice any symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis in Raleigh, NC?
Some patients with ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC may have noticeable symptoms, while other patients may not know they have the condition until they see their physician for another reason. Others with ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC may have a type of UC that consistently goes in and out of remission, meaning that symptoms of ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC may go up and down over time. Symptoms may be mild during one stage of life, yet severe in another. For those who do experience symptoms of ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC, these are the most common:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal pain
- Increase in abdominal sounds (such as gurgling or “gassy” noises)
- Unintended weight loss
- Malnutrition
- Blood in the stool
Should you ever experience blood in the stool, whether it is a byproduct of ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC, or another condition, it is usually a marker to see your physician as soon as possible.
If you do have a case of ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC, you may not have noticeable symptoms of UC itself, but it can cause other conditions to occur, such as:
- Inflammation of the eye
- Mouth sores
- Skin problems
- Decrease in appetite
- Joint pain and swelling
If you are experiencing any of the above conditions along with symptoms of possible ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with a GI specialist, such as Cary Gastro.
What Are the Causes of Ulcerative Colitis in Raleigh, NC?
Researchers are not 100 percent sure what causes ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC, however, they do believe one of the causes is an overactive immune system. There are certain risk factors for ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC to be aware of. Some of these include:
- Genes. A family history of ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC, IBD, or colon cancer can put you at risk.
- Other immune disorders. If you or family members have immune disorders, it can make your risk of ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC even higher.
- Environment. Bacteria, antigens, and viruses, may trigger UC in some patients.
How Is Ulcerative Colitis in Raleigh, NC Diagnosed?
Ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC is diagnosed in a few different ways. It depends on your family history and how your doctor decides to proceed. Because ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC closely mimics Crohn’s disease as well as other IBDs, your physician may run tests in order to pinpoint a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis in Raleigh. NC. Some of the most common tests to diagnose UC include:
- Endoscopy: A small tube is inserted through the mouth with a camera attached to examine the small intestine, stomach, and esophagus.
- Biopsy: This is a definitive diagnosis of ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC where a surgeon takes a small piece of the colon for analysis.
- Stool sample: This is often an initial test for ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC where the doctor can examine the stool for bacteria, blood, and viruses.
- Colonoscopy: This is another definitive test for UC. A flexible tube is inserted into the rectum in order to examine the colon.
- CT scan: This is an X-ray of the pelvis and abdomen.
What Are Common Treatments of Ulcerative Colitis in Raleigh, NC?
Once you have a definitive diagnosis of ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC, you and the team at Cary Gastro can decide on a course of treatment. As ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC is chronic, most doctors prescribe medication to reduce inflammation to make flare-ups less painful and irritating. Some of the most common medications include mesalamine, sulfasalazine, and balsalazide. Your doctor may also use corticosteroids or antibiotics, depending on your personal medical needs.
The doctors here at Cary Gastroenterology Associates are always here to help with ulcerative colitis in Raleigh, NC or any other digestive or GI need you may have. Request an appointment today with our professional team to be evaluated at any of our office locations.
Cary Gastro
Cary Gastro has been providing high-quality digestive health care for more than 3 decades. We are the pioneers in private gastrointestinal (GI) practice in the region and offer premium healthcare 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our physicians, which include seven licensed gastroenterologists and hepatologists, are available to support you with various digestive conditions. They have a combined experience of more than 90 years in the medical field.
Our Founder
Dr. Michael R. Pike, M.D. established Cary Gastro back in 1986. He retired from practice back in 2014 after 28 years of unparalleled service in the region. Our clinic will forever be thankful for all of his contributions. We continue to follow his vision in offering excellent health care to the community.
Procedures We Offer
Our clinic conducts various procedures to support patients with various digestive conditions. Here are some of the tests performed by our clinics:
- Anorectal Manometry
- Colonoscopy
- Esophageal Dilation
- Esophageal Manometry
- Esophageal pH/Impedance Testing
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
- H. Pylori Breath Testing
- Hemorrhoid Banding Ligation
- Hydrogen Breath Testing
- Upper GI Endoscopy
- Video Capsule Endoscopy
- Weight Loss Options
Conditions We Treat
At Cary Gastro, we specialize in treating different digestive conditions. Here are some of the healthcare conditions handled by our clinics:
- Acid Reflux
- Anal Fissures
- Barrett's Esophagus
- Celiac Disease
- Cirrhosis
- Colorectal Cancer
- Constipation
- Crohn’s Disease
- Diarrhea
- Diverticular Disease
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)
- Fecal Incontinence
- Gallstones
- Gastritis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER & GERD)
- Hemorrhoids
- Hepatitis
- Hiatal Hernia
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Lactose Intolerance
- Microscopic Colitis
- NAFLD/NASH
- Pancreatitis
- Peptic Ulcer Disease
- Smoking and the GI Tract
- Ulcerative Colitis
The Hemorrhoid Center
The Cary Gastro Hemorrhoid Center is here to provide you with fast and painless treatment for hemorrhoids. We understand that some people may have reservations in consulting about this condition that is why we strive to make you feel at ease during your visit. Our center also aims to keep you informed about your condition.
Our doctors, who are board-certified gastroenterologists, puts a premium on the doctor-patient relationship. They will examine you closely and provide you with the best treatment for your condition.
The Cary Gastro Women’s Center
The Cary Gastro Women's Center for GI Health serves the specific needs of women with gastrointestinal (GI) concerns. Women go through GI concerns related to stress, pregnancy, and hormonal changes.
Some women may not be comfortable disclosing delicate issues concerning their health. As a practice that highly values privacy, we provide women a venue where they can disclose concerns with female doctors without reservations. Communication is essential in addressing different GI health problems so feel free to describe what you’re feeling and let our physicians take care of the rest.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are experiencing any digestive disorders, Cary Gastro is here to help you. Contact us at (919) 816-4948 to schedule an appointment with our doctors. You may also set up a consultation online. You may also check out our homepage to learn more about our company and our services. We are looking forward to serving you.
Our Locations
We have six clinics ready to accommodate you. Visit us in any of these locations:
Cary Office
115 Kildaire Park Dr #201
Cary, NC 27518
(919) 816-4948
Holly Springs Office
208 Village Walk Drive,
Holly Springs, NC 27540
(919) 285-2801
Women’s Center For GI Health
2418 Blue Ridge Road, Suite 250
Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 787-1644
Raleigh Endoscopy Center - Cary
1505 SW Cary Parkway, Suite 202
Cary, NC 27511
(919) 249-5087
Raleigh Endoscopy Center - Main
2417 Atrium Drive, Suite 101
Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 249-5246
Raleigh Endoscopy Center - North
8300 Health Park, Suite 210
Raleigh, NC 27615
(919) 249-5902