Cause 8: Infections: Triggering the Inflammatory Response
The eighth cause of ulcerative colitis involves infections. It might seem straightforward – infections lead to inflammation, a key issue in UC. However, the relationship between infections and UC is complex and multifaceted.
Certain bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections can trigger an inflammatory response in the gut, leading to UC. However, the types of infections that can trigger UC vary widely among individuals. Some infections might directly cause inflammation in the gut, while others might disrupt the gut microbiome or trigger an overactive immune response.
Moreover, the timing of these infections can also influence their impact on UC. For instance, infections during early childhood, when the immune system is still developing, can have a lasting impact on immune function and potentially increase the risk of UC later in life.
Vaccination against certain infections, for instance, can potentially reduce the risk of UC. Moreover, maintaining a healthy gut microbiome can help prevent harmful infections and minimize their impact on the gut.(8)
