Ulcerative Colitis Specialist
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Kevin McNamara, MD
Board Certified Gastroenterologist located in Tulsa, OK
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic gastrointestinal condition that affects your large intestines and causes a range of symptoms that may impair your quality of life. At Kevin McNamara, MD, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Dr. McNamara specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ulcerative colitis to reduce or eliminate your symptoms so you can live a full and happy life. To schedule an appointment, contact the office by phone or online today.
Ulcerative Colitis Q&A
What is ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcerations in the large intestines. The chronic inflammatory condition may affect your entire colon or only one part, such as your rectum.
Though ulcerative colitis can develop at any age, it’s most often diagnosed before age 30. You may be at risk of developing chronic inflammatory bowel disease if it runs in your family.
Researchers are still investigating the underlying cause of ulcerative colitis, but theorize it may be triggered by your immune system or bacterial infections.
What are ulcerative colitis symptoms?
Ulcerative colitis symptoms tend to develop gradually and worsen over time. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Blood stools
- Rectal bleeding
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling as though you can’t fully empty your bowels
- Bowel urgency
The type of symptoms you experience may vary depending on the portion of your large intestines affected and the severity of your inflammation.
How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed?
Dr. McNamara is an experienced gastroenterologist and diagnoses ulcerative colitis after a comprehensive evaluation. During your exam, he asks detailed questions about your symptoms and medical and family history, then performs a physical.
Diagnostic testing may be needed to confirm or rule out other causes of your symptoms, which may include blood work or stool testing. He may also recommend a colonoscopy to evaluate the lining of your large intestines and the extent of your inflammation and ulceration.
How is ulcerative colitis treated?
Treatment for your ulcerative colitis is individualized based on the severity of your symptoms, the degree of inflammation and ulceration, and the portion of your large intestines affected by the inflammatory bowel disease. The goal of your treatment plan is to alleviate your symptoms.
Initially, your treatment plan may include:
- Antibiotics
- Sulfasalazine
- Corticosteroids
- Biologics
- Nutrition supplements
If medical management fails to alleviate your symptoms, Dr. McNamara may recommend surgery to remove your colon, referred to as a colectomy.
For expert care for your ulcerative colitis from a physician who takes a patient-centered approach to care, contact Kevin McNamara, MD, by calling the office or through the online tool today.
