Do I have UC?

[Liver-mareez]

Hi everyone,

I'm 25 as of now and in november of last year, I had an episode of rectal bleeding. It lasted about three days and freaked me out really bad. I thought it might be cancer but when it remained stopped, I attributed it to possible hemorrhoids and moved on.

Two months ago, I started noticing that my stool was either mushy or finger thin. But I was going to the toilet only once a day like I always have. I was also bloated most of the day, especially after meals. So I finally decided to see my GP last week. He booked me for a colonoscopy the next day. During the test, he said he found moderate to severe inflammation throughout my colon with erosions in my rectum and sigmoid colon. Multiple biopsies were taken as well. I was heart-broken when I learnt I probably had UC and would require lifelong treatment.

Interestingly,the biopsy report was mostly normal except for detecting some chronic inflammation in the superficial layer. I've attached the picture of the report. It says "no features of IBD seen" yet my doctor still thinks it's UC and has begun me on two pills of mesalazine for life.

Should I get a second opinion? Considering I haven't had the classic symptoms of UC like recurring blood in stool and strong urgency for toilet trips. I'm lost and don't wanna be treated for something I don't have.

[willow24 Administrator]

Sometimes the inflammation or colitis is not seen on the surface of the bowel but is deeper in the tissues, hence why they take biopsies. They wouldnt give you the meds without sound reason as the meds for ibd are heavy stuff.

Have you done a faecal calprotectin test? You could ask if you could do one.

Also if it is UC then you are so fortunate to be diagnosed so quickly, and is prob reason you haven't developed other symptoms.

Any questions just ask x

[Liver-mareez in reply to willow24]

Hi and thanks for replying. I understand what you're saying but my case was the opposite. I have visible inflammation on the surface ( as seen by the colonoscope) but the biopsies suggest the inflammation is mild and superficial. Also the diagnosis says that none of the microscopic features of IBD were found. In light of these microscopic findings, should I not be investigated for other reasons of colitis, like infectious colitis that has a finite antibiotic treatment?

I would have coped well with the diagnosis if the colonoscopy findings and biopsy findings weren't conflicting.

[willow24 Administrator in reply to Liver-mareez]

Ask for a faecal calprotectin test and ix it gp or gastroenterologist that has started you on these meds?

[Liver-mareez in reply to willow24]

Yeah I'll definitely bring that test up in my next visit. And it's the gastroenterologist that started me on the tabs.

About the calprotectin test, would a low value rule out UC? I mean wouldn't the number be low anyways since the inflammation is mild in the colon?

Im sorry for ranting. I just don't seem to agree with the diagnosis.

[willow24 Administrator in reply to Liver-mareez]

Even with mild inflammation the fcal result eould be raised. There is certainly nothing stopping you from getting a second opinion, or asking the gastro why he believes it is IBD x

[Valerie0106 in reply to willow24]

My first calprotectin test in March showed “very mildly raised” “ borderline” inflammation. My third last month (following diagnosis of UC)showed well in excess of 1000. Symptoms were very bad and unchanged throughout that period so it’s difficult to see why. One issue may be that I was not advised how to take a sample - I would recommend doing a bit of research to anyone having to do this.

[1Noproblem]

Hi.

Sorry to hear you're not feeling great. I've lived with UC for 23 years and had to figure a few things out myself along the way. Do get a second opinion. Don't take medication unless it's absolutely necessary. Some GI will tell you diet doesn't affect the gut....lol. of course it does!! Eliminate Inflammatory foods and foods that may be causing irritation to the lining of the gut/ Colon. Do the research, keep a food log. Take quality supplements , probiotics/ prebiotics. Good luck

[Cylarreta in reply to 1Noproblem]

You’re right on about diet. I would add to make sure you’re hydrating well and watch your stress level.