Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition that affects the inner lining of the large intestine and colon, which leads to inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. The condition progresses slowly and has no cure but can be managed if it is diagnosed on time. It can develop due to various reasons, including genetics, immune disorders, and environmental factors, among others. In this article, we shall provide you with an overview of ulcerative colitis, its symptoms, and common ways to treat it.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis

The symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition; they can be constant or sporadic. Some patients don’t have symptoms for months and years too. That said, here are some of the most common ones as observed.

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Sudden weight loss
• Rectal pain
• Fever
• Bloody stools
• Increased noises in the abdomen
• Malnourishment

If left treated for long periods of time, ulcerative colitis may also lead to other secondary conditions such as:

• Pain and swelling in the joints
• Skin issues
• Mouth sores
• Eye Inflammation and infections
• Loss of appetite and vomiting

Treating ulcerative colitis

Unfortunately, there is no cure for ulcerative colitis but there are many modes of treatment that help tackle its symptoms and keep flare-ups at bay. These are decided on the basis of the cases’ severity and focus on ensuring longer periods of remission in individuals. Here are some of the common modes of treatment for ulcerative colitis:

• Medication
  Individuals who suffer from mild symptoms can take medication to help reduce the swelling and inflammation in the body. Common medications include mesalamine, sulfasalazine, balsalazide, olsalazine, and 5-aminosalicylates. Some individuals can even need corticosteroids to reduce the inflammation. But these may have adverse effects, which is why they’re rarely prescribed. In case of moderate to severe conditions, doctors prescribe biologics, which block an inflammation before it occurs.
• Surgery
  In case an individual experiences a severe flare, there may be a need to hospitalize them. This is done to tackle dehydration and the loss of electrolytes that occur due to diarrhea resulting from ulcerative colitis. At times, individuals may also need blood replacements. In extreme cases, doctors have to operate upon the patient wherein the colon is removed and a new pathway created for the waste to be expelled. Typically this pathway is created by cutting a small opening in the abdominal wall and redirecting the waste directly through the end of the rectum. But, there are also other ways to do this. Doctors will choose what works best for the individual and their overall physical health.

Natural modes of treatment for ulcerative colitis

Medication to treat this condition can sometimes lead to side effects. In such cases, it is best to try some natural remedies after consulting with your doctor. Common natural remedies include:

• Boswellia
  Boswellia helps stop the chemical reactions that lead to inflammation in the body. Individuals can try adding this herb to their foods.
• Bromelain
  Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples that helps ease the symptoms of UC and helps reduce the number of flares experienced.
• Probiotics
  A healthy gut promotes a strong immune system that is able to fight infections better. Individuals can try taking probiotics to strengthen the gut and immune system.
• Psyllium
  Psyllium is a fiber supplement that helps regulate bowel movements. This can help alleviate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis and prevent abdominal cramping, bloating, and more.

Individuals who suffer from ulcerative colitis can also tackle this condition by making changes to their lifestyle and diet. They can try eating more low-fat foods, adding more vitamin C to their meals, and ensuring that they get the right amounts of fiber.