Gastrointestinal Disorders Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Linked to Accutane
Tuesday, 22 February 2011 10:24
Diagnosing Gastrointestinal Disorders Side Effects of Accutane
Millions of people around the world turned to a medication known as Accutane in years past to help them treat both acute and relatively moderate forms of acne. Even though the medication was only approved for severe cases, the results of use of the drug were generally positive. However, reports of the development of serious Accutane side effects eventually began to surface, prompting the need for help from Accutane lawyers all over the United States. Among the different side effects, two were extremely prevalent, and they were ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Below is a brief introduction as to how these conditions are diagnosed.
Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease Diagnosis and Treatment
Ulcerative colitis is a disease that leads to the development of inflammation and ultimately full-blown ulcers inside the linings of the rectum and the colon. This development kills the healthy cells, produces bleeding and puss and leads to frequent discharges that are experienced as diarrhea.
Diagnosing ulcerative colitis is done with the use of many tests including blood tests that check for anemia, which is indicative of a problem somewhere in the body. In addition, stool samples are gathered and measured for white blood cells and a colonoscopy is also typically done to obtain a closer look at the specific area of the body that may be having serious problems.
Crohn’s disease is another condition that affects the gastrointestinal system of the patient, but unlike ulcerative colitis it is not limited to the colon or the rectum. Crohn’s disease can cause severe inflammation anywhere from the mouth to the anus, or either end of this system. Patients will experience severe pain and frequent diarrhea as a result.
Diagnosing Crohn’s disease is also a bit different than diagnosing ulcerative colitis. In order to reach this diagnosis, doctors will usually order a battery of lab tests to measure different aspects of the blood. In addition, steps can include performing barium X-rays, CT scans and/or endoscopy procedures with video.
Lawsuit Attorneys for Gastrointestinal Disorders from Accutane
Overall, the process of diagnosing these conditions is not pleasant, but pales in comparison to the suffering brought about by either condition for which there are no known cures. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with these diseases as a result of using acne medication, contact the Accutane attorneys at the Phillips National Injury Group today to schedule a free initial consultation.