Currently, doctors believe that a virus or atypical bacteria triggers ulcerative colitis. Salmonella in poultry and eggs and Escherichia coli in beef are the most common bacteria that may trigger ulcerative colitis. Campylobacter jejun found in pets and farm animals and Clostridium in amoxicillin also play a role in the development of ulcerative colitis. Those individuals with family members who have had ulcerative colitis are at a greater risk of developing it. Non-smokers, women taking oral contraceptives, stress, and sensitivity to some foods may also cause or affect the development of this disease.
Doctors can diagnose ulcerative colitis in many different ways.
The most popular method used now is the colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. A sigmoidoscope is a short, flexible tube that is inserted through the anus, to the rectum, and up to the sigmoid colon. A colonoscope is a long, flexible tube that extends up through the entire colon. Pictures of the inside of the colon are taken to determine the site of bleeding and ulcers. At this time, a biopsy of the lining of the colon is taken and examined closely.