Page 38 - The Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol

eventually result in anemia, which is the improper absorption of iron in the body. This in
turn may lead to weight loss and fatigue. Symptoms of UC may come and go over the
years.

Other symptoms include pain and cramping in the abdominal area. The cramping and
pain usually occur before or during a bowel movement, but not always. Constant diarrhea
and blood loss may result in anemia, as well as dehydration, loss of sleep, chronic fatigue,
decreased appetite, and weight loss. Some people with UC experience a fever.

Those with this autoimmune disease also say that they feel a sudden, intense need to have
a bowel movement. This can make life with UC difficult, as it may be hard to find a
restroom quickly when out and about. The sudden or constant feeling to have a bowel
movement is referred to as Tenesmus.

If you suspect you may have UC, watch for how frequently you are having bowel
movements, as well as whether they are loose stools or not. Mild UC is usually consistent
with up to four loose stools a day and mild abdominal pain. The stools may or may not be
bloody. Moderate UC is characterized by anywhere from four to six loose stools daily with
moderate abdominal pain and anemia. Severe UC is defined as over six bloody stools
daily, combined with anemia, fevers, and a rapid heart rate. The worst kind of UC is
referred to as very severe UC, with symptoms coming on very quickly and very severely.
These symptoms include over ten loose stools daily, abdominal pain/tenderness and
swelling, continuous blood in stools, and the possible need for a blood transfusion.
Without help, this level of UC may have life-threatening or fatal results.

Problems Resulting from UC

In severe cases of UC, serious problems may arise such as rupture of the bowel and severe
bleeding. Constant inflammation in the bowel may also result in complications such as
inflammation in the joints, eyes, and skin. Because those with UC may have a harder time
absorbing vital nutrients like vitamin D, the bones may also be affected. What’s more,
many doctors prescribe corticosteroids to help with inflammation. These mediations
could accelerate bone loss.

UC and Cancer
Chronic inflammation in the bowel may lead to certain cancers. Not only UC, but other
inflammatory bowel diseases as well, put people at a higher risk for cancer. Around five
percent of those diagnosed with UC will develop colorectal cancer.

Because those with inflammatory bowel conditions already experience a wide range of
bowel issues, it can be difficult to detect any issues related to cancer in that area. For
example, one of the most common warning signs of colorectal cancer is blood in the stool,
but this is also common with UC.

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