10 Effective Tips for Managing Ulcerative Colitis
Chronic inflammation of the large intestine, or ulcerative colitis , is a devastating and exhausting disease that can wreak havoc on every aspect of one’s life. From physical health to mental well-being, ulcerative colitis can take a toll on overall health if left untreated. Here are simple ways to manage ulcerative colitis. By following them under a doctor’s supervision, you can take back control of life and manage the condition better.
What is ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. UC acts on the innermost walls of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is a chronic condition that can last for months or even years.
Types of ulcerative colitis
- Ulcerative proctitis is the most common type and accounts for about two-thirds of all UC cases. People with this type have frequent episodes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Ulcers may form in the rectum or anus.
- Proctosigmoiditis is less common than ulcerative proctitis but affects more people overall because it causes more severe symptoms, such as bloody diarrhea that may lead to dehydration and malnutrition.
- Extensive colitis/pancolitis occurs when inflammation spreads beyond the rectum or anus to other parts of the gastrointestinal tract (large intestine and small intestine).
- Left-sided colitis is uncommon, but it happens when Crohn’s disease or another autoimmune disorder attacks one side of the colon.
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis
Following are certain signs of the condition that need to be addressed as soon as it is experienced.
- Persistent abdominal pain that doesn’t subside with rest or antibiotics
- Diarrhea that lasts more than three days
- Blood in your stool
- Fever
- Fatigue
Tips for managing ulcerative colitis
Get screened regularly
One of the most important steps you can take is to get screened regularly.