Q: My father is a patient of ulcerative colitis since last 10 years; he is 60. Recently he underwent colonoscopy and at present is taking Mesacol 2x3, Mebaspa 1x2 and Folvite. Earlier he was detected to have steroid-induced blood sugar but it did not disturb him and the medicine for it was not required. The last wysolone course he took was in Feb this year. But earlier, he used to take it regularly. For last some days he was experiencing weakness and uneasiness so a fasting blood sugar was done which showed 265 mg/dl and he was prescribed Pyricontin, Diacobal-1.5 mg, Semi-Daonil(2.5 mg) and Shelcal 500 mg. I want to know if diabetes is a common feature of ulcerative colitis and what would be the further implications? Will it have any adverse effect?

A:Ulcerative colitis does not cause diabetes, but the latter is so common that diabetes can occur co-incidentally. Steroid therapy can make hidden diabetes become evident, and will make the diabetes more difficult to control. By managing each disease carefully, both disorders can be adequately controlled. Adequate exercise and rest, and careful dietary regulation are important for maximal control of each disorder, and minimizing stress is very desirable if possible. Frequent medical check-ups are necessary, as are good hygiene and appropriate family support to ensure regular dietary intake, etc.