Ghassan Al-Sabbagh, MD: What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ghassan Al-Sabbagh, MD, received his Doctorate of Medicine degree in 1983 from Damascus University School of Medicine. He later came to the United States to further his education and become a specialist in gastroenterology and hepatology, and he has helped thousands from his North Carolina private practice. Ulcerative Colitis is among the many conditions that he has diagnosed and treated.

Ulcerative colitis is found in the lining of the large intestine. This chronic disease occurs when the lining becomes inflamed and develops ulcers that can produce mucous and pus. The ulceration and inflammation can result in abdominal pain and frequent bowel movements. With a skilled physician like Ghassan Al-Sabbagh, MD, though, you can understand this disease and manage your symptoms, allowing you to live a full life.

The inflammation and ulcerations are caused by an abnormal immune system response. The immune system mistakes materials like food and bacteria for foreign bodies, sending white blood cells to the large intestine lining. 

Unlike Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis affects only the lining of the colon. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Symptoms include more urgent bowel movements, persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, abdominal cramps and bloody stool. 

If you are suffering from ulcerative colitis, you might experience a lack of appetite and unexplained weight loss, accompanied by a feeling of fatigue and low energy. Symptoms can come and go, with distress-free periods lasting months or even years between flare-ups. Unfortunately, symptoms do return in time. This makes evaluation of certain treatments difficult for even the best physicians.  

NOTE: The above information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Seek the in-person advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider like GhassanAl-Sabbagh, MD, with any questions regarding a medical condition. 

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