Accutane and Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition marked by abdominal pain and digestive difficulties. Its two most common forms are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both of which can cause inflammation along the gastrointestinal tract. Unlike Crohn’s disease which can affect several organs, ulcerative colitis typically causes inflammation of the colon and rectum.
Doctors are not sure what causes ulcerative colitis or other forms of inflammatory bowel disease to develop. However, an emerging body of evidence suggests a link between this disease and the acne treatment Accutane, also known as Isotretinoin. If you have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and believe Accutane or a generic form of the drug may be the cause, you may be eligible to receive financial compensation.
To learn more about your legal rights and options, call the Accutane ulcerative colitis lawyers of Williams Kherkher today at 800-220-9341.
Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis causes chronic inflammation of the rectum, although the problem may extend throughout the colon (also known as the large intestine). The symptoms can range from mild to severe, and may include:
- Frequent diarrhea, often with blood
- Abdominal cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Rectal pain
Even when they are relative mild, these symptoms can be painful and can greatly interfere with a person’s daily routines. In severe cases, ulcerative colitis can be disabling or even life-threatening, due to the dehydration and malnutrition it can cause.
Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is currently not curable except by complete removal of the colon. However, most cases can be treated with some or all of the following options:
- Strict dietary regulations
- Prescription medications that treat the symptoms
- Colectomy (surgery to remove the colon, which is only performed in severe cases)
Unfortunately, even when patients respond well to medications and dietary changes, they may continue to suffer from recurrences of their symptoms. Our team of Accutane ulcerative colitis attorneys strongly believe that no one deserves to live with such an intrusive and painful condition.
Contact Us
If you or a member of your family has been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis after using Accutane, you may have grounds for a legal claim. To learn more, contact the Accutane ulcerative colitis attorneys of Williams Kherkher at 800-220-9341.
