What is Ulcerative Colitis (UC)?
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a kind of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is a collective term for a number of digestive tracts (GI) disorders. Inflammation of the rectum, the large intestine (commonly known as the colon), or both can lead to UC. The lining of your colon develops microscopic wounds known as ulcers as a result of this inflammation. Typically, inflammation starts in the rectum and progresses upward. Your colon may be affected entirely.
Your stomach empties frequently as a result of the inflammation. Ulcers develop as the surface lining of your stomach loses cells. The ulcers might bleed and secrete pus and mucous. Although this ailment can affect anybody, most people who suffer from UC do so between the ages of 15 and 30. Symptoms include swollen joints, diminished appetite, skin problems, sore throat, and eye inflammation.
You must see a doctor if you suspect that you have ulcerative colitis based on the description above.
Causes
Researchers think that an overactive immune system may be the cause of UC. It is not known why certain immune systems attack the large intestine in response, while others do not.
The development of UC may be affected by a number of factors, including:
- Genetics: A parent may give you a gene that raises your risk of developing UC.
- Immunological conditions: Your likelihood of getting another immunological illness is increased if you already have one.
- Environmental factors: Your immune system may be activated by bacteria, viruses, and antigens.
Medication: Your condition, including how severe your symptoms are, will determine which drug you should take. Many symptoms will be relieved by taking prescribed medication for lessening swelling and medication. A biologic drug may be prescribed by a doctor if you have moderate to severe symptoms. Biologics, which are created from antibodies, assist in reducing inflammation. These can be used to stop symptom flare-ups.
Alternative treatments for Ulcerative Colitis
Some of the drugs used to treat UC might have very negative side effects. Some people use natural methods to control UC when conventional medicines are poorly tolerated.
Natural treatments for treating UC symptoms include:
Boswellia
The resin under the bark of the Boswellia serrata tree contains this herb. According to research, it halts some of the bodily chemical processes that cause inflammation.
Bromelain
This combination of enzymes may also be purchased as a supplement and is naturally present in pineapples. It could lessen flare-ups and alleviate UC symptoms.
Probiotics
Countless numbers of microorganisms live in your stomach and intestines. Your body is better equipped to fight off inflammation and UC symptoms when the bacteria are in good condition. Consuming probiotic-rich meals or taking probiotic supplements can help improve the stomach's microbial flora's overall health.
Psyllium
This fiber supplement may support regular bowel motions. This could ease the discomfort, avoid constipation, and facilitate waste disposal. However, many IBD sufferers may find that eating fiber during a flare-up makes their gastrointestinal cramps, gas, and bloating worse.
Turmeric
The anti-inflammatory antioxidant curcumin, which is abundant in this golden-yellow spice, has been demonstrated to lessen inflammation.
Disclaimer: Remember that some herbal treatments have not undergone clinical studies and may not be recommended by professional associations or their therapeutic recommendations.
Many of these organic therapies can be used with other UC treatments. Learn which of these may be safe for you from your physician.
Watching your Diet for Ulcerative Colitis Sufferers
There isn't a particular diet for UC. Food and alcohol affect each person differently. However, those attempting to prevent a flare-up could find the following basic guidelines helpful:
Eat a diet low in fat.
Although the benefits of a low-fat diet are unclear, it is known that meals high in fat frequently lead to diarrhea, especially in those with IBD. More low-fat food consumption may prevent flare-ups. Choose healthier choices like olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids when you do consume fat.
Boost your vitamin C intake.
Your intestines may benefit from this vitamin's defensive effects and be able to mend or recover more quickly after an attack. People with UC get lengthier remissions while eating diets high in vitamin C. Foods high in vitamin C include berries, bell peppers, spinach, and parsley.
Consume more fiber.
Bulky, slow-moving fiber is the last thing you want in your intestines during an attack. when you're in remission, fiber can keep you regular. It could also make it simpler for you to pass waste through bowel motions.
Psyllium
This fiber supplement may support regular bowel motions. This could ease the discomfort, avoid constipation, and facilitate waste disposal. However, many IBD sufferers may find that eating fiber during a flare-up makes their gastrointestinal cramps, gas, and bloating worse.
Keep a food journal.
It's a good idea to keep a food journal to start figuring out how certain meals impact you. Keep a close eye on what you eat and how you feel in the hours after for a few weeks. Keep a journal of your bowel motions and any symptoms you may have.You may be able to see patterns throughout that period between discomfort or stomach pain and particular foods that are bothersome. See if your symptoms improve by trying to cut out certain things from your diet.By staying away from foods that irritate your GI tract, you might be able to control the milder symptoms of UC.
Disclaimer
BahrainHealthMatters.com is for informative purposes only and not a substitute for professional in person expertise.
We advise that anyone having concerns about their health issues should consult their doctor asap.