Where Can I Get Diagnosed and Treated for Ulcerative Colitis in Edgewater, MD?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the lining of the large intestine and rectum. While it is primarily known as a gastrointestinal disorder, ulcerative colitis is also classified as an autoimmune disease—meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.

Early signs of ulcerative colitis often appear gradually and can be mistaken for other digestive problems. The most common symptoms include frequent diarrhea (sometimes with blood or pus in the stool), abdominal pain or cramping—especially in the lower abdomen—and urgency to have a bowel movement. These symptoms can overlap with other autoimmune and rheumatic conditions, making expert evaluation essential.

At Nasseri Clinic, our team recognizes that autoimmune diseases, such as ulcerative colitis, can sometimes be accompanied by joint pain, arthritis, or other rheumatic symptoms. In fact, some patients with ulcerative colitis may develop related joint inflammation, skin changes, or eye issues. Recognizing these connections is crucial for providing comprehensive care and coordinating treatment across specialties.

If you are seeking a reliable diagnosis for Ulcerative Colitis, the Nasseri Clinic of Arthritic and Rheumatic Diseases can be an excellent starting point, especially if you are experiencing symptoms alongside other autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. Our clinic specializes in the diagnosis and management of autoimmune diseases, including those that may overlap with gastrointestinal conditions like Ulcerative Colitis.

Our experienced rheumatologists work in collaboration with local gastroenterologists to ensure comprehensive care for patients with complex autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. If you have persistent symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss—particularly if you also have joint pain, arthritis, or other autoimmune conditions—our team can help assess your risk and coordinate the appropriate diagnostic workup, which may include laboratory tests, imaging, and referrals for colonoscopy when indicated.

At Nasseri Clinic, we understand that Ulcerative Colitis can sometimes be associated with rheumatologic symptoms, such as inflammatory arthritis, which makes our integrated approach especially valuable. We provide thorough evaluations, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing support for patients navigating both gastrointestinal and rheumatic aspects of their health.

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that may overlap with rheumatic or autoimmune disorders.

Comprehensive Evaluation Process
Our specialists begin with a detailed medical history, focusing on symptoms like diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, urgency, and weight loss. Understanding your family history, recent travel, medication use, and any related conditions like joint pain or skin rashes is crucial.

Laboratory and Stool Testing
We perform blood tests to assess inflammation and anemia, common in UC. Stool studies help rule out infections or parasites mimicking UC symptoms.

Endoscopic Assessment
Endoscopic procedures, particularly colonoscopy with biopsy, are coordinated with gastroenterology partners to confirm UC. This allows visualization of the colon and rectum for signs of inflammation and ulceration and provides biopsy samples to confirm the diagnosis.

Imaging Studies
Imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to evaluate the extent of disease, detect complications, and rule out other conditions, especially when systemic autoimmune diseases are present.

Assessing Disease Severity for Optimal Care
We assess disease severity using symptoms, laboratory markers, and endoscopic findings to categorize UC as mild, moderate, or severe. This helps create a personalized treatment plan.

Collaborative Care Model
At Nasseri Clinic, we provide holistic care by managing both UC and overlapping conditions like joint pain, ensuring comprehensive treatment.

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) can affect both the gastrointestinal system and be linked to rheumatic diseases like arthritis. During your visit, you can expect a thorough, multidisciplinary evaluation tailored to your needs.

Comprehensive Evaluation and History
Our providers will review your medical history, including bowel habits, blood or mucus in stool, abdominal pain, and weight changes. We’ll also inquire about family history and any joint pain, stiffness, or musculoskeletal discomfort, as UC often presents with extra-intestinal symptoms.

Focused Physical Examination
A physical exam will check for abdominal tenderness and may assess your joints and skin for any rheumatic symptoms associated with UC.

Advanced Diagnostic Testing
We may recommend blood tests to check for inflammation, anemia, or autoimmune markers, and stool studies to rule out infections. Imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans may be used to evaluate intestinal inflammation. A colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy is often required to examine the colon for inflammation and take biopsies for further analysis.

Personalized Treatment Plans
Once diagnosed, our team will create a treatment plan addressing both digestive and musculoskeletal health. This may include anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressants, or biologics, along with lifestyle and dietary guidance.

Patient-Centered, Collaborative Care
At Nasseri Clinic, our multidisciplinary team is committed to providing ongoing support and ensuring you understand and manage your UC effectively.

If you are experiencing persistent digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or rectal bleeding, it is important to seek expert evaluation, as these symptoms may signal an underlying inflammatory or autoimmune disorder, such as ulcerative colitis. At Nasseri Clinic of Arthritic and Rheumatic Diseases, Dr. Nasser Nasseri, MD, specializes in diagnosing and managing autoimmune conditions that can affect not only the joints but also the gastrointestinal tract.

Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with strong links to autoimmune and rheumatic disorders. Many patients with ulcerative colitis may also develop arthritis or related rheumatic conditions. Dr. Nasseri’s expertise in rheumatology provides a unique advantage in recognizing and managing the complex overlap between digestive and rheumatic diseases.

During your consultation, Dr. Nasseri will take a thorough medical history, perform a detailed physical examination, and may recommend specialized diagnostic tests—including blood work, stool studies, and coordination with gastroenterology for procedures such as colonoscopy—to accurately identify the cause of your symptoms.

Once a diagnosis is established, Dr. Nasseri will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and disease severity. Treatment may include medications to control inflammation, manage joint symptoms, and address digestive health, as well as dietary recommendations and ongoing monitoring. For patients whose ulcerative colitis is associated with arthritis or other rheumatic conditions, Dr. Nasseri ensures a comprehensive, coordinated approach to care.

At Nasseri Clinic of Arthritic and Rheumatic Diseases, you will receive compassionate, patient-centered care with a focus on clear communication and the most up-to-date, evidence-based therapies. If you are concerned about your digestive or joint health, schedule an appointment with Dr. Nasseri to take the first step toward effective diagnosis and integrated treatment. For more information, contact us. We are conveniently located at 3168 Braverton St., Suite 330B, Edgewater, MD 21037. We serve patients from Edgewater MD, Riva MD, Davidsonville MD, Annapolis MD, and surrounding areas.