Ulcerative colitis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract. It occurs when the lining of the large intestine, rectum, or both becomes inflamed. How to deal with an ulcerative colitis crisis?
The disease can have periods of remission, characterized by mild or barely perceptible symptoms. However, it has phases in which crises or outbreaks occurin which there are episodes of diarrhea, pain and abdominal cramps, among other symptoms.
Treatment may vary based on medical considerations and factors such as the age, habits and current state of health of the person concerned. However, Generally there are some recommendations that can help alleviate it to avoid complications.
How to recognize an ulcerative colitis crisis?
The clinical manifestations of ulcerative colitis can vary from person to person, depending on the immune system response and lifestyle. Many patients experience mild symptoms or asymptomatic periods. However, the condition has periods of outbreaks or crises where it occurs:
- severe abdominal pain
- Increased stomach sounds
- Bleeding in stool
- Diarrhea
- moderate fever
- rectal pain
- noticeable weight loss
- nutritional deficiencies
- skin problems
- Decreased appetite and nausea
Tips for coping with an ulcerative colitis attack
To give adequate treatment to ulcerative colitis crises it is essential to receive a medical diagnosis. A healthcare professional can determine whether your symptoms are due to ulcerative colitis or to other problems such as Crohn’s disease or diverticulosis.
Tests may include blood tests, stool samples, barium enemas, or colonoscopy, among others. If indeed the symptoms correspond to an ulcerative colitis crisis, your doctor may suggest some medications and lifestyle changes. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
A general level, there are some tips that can help prevent and treat these outbreaks. They are simple measures that can be applied on a daily basis, both in periods of remission and crisis. Put them into practice!
1. Limit the consumption of dairy products
To date, there is not enough evidence to say that diet causes ulcerative colitis. However, Research has been able to establish that some foods and drinks can aggravate symptoms, especially during epidemics.
One of the varieties of these harmful foods is dairy products. Its habitual consumption can worsen symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea and gas. Therefore, consumption of processed milk, cheese, ice cream and yogurt should be limited as much as possible.
2. Increase your fiber intake
Dietary fiber plays a very important role in digestive health. In cases of ulcerative colitis it can work for better or for worse. Consuming it in moderate amounts can help maintain regular digestion during periods of remission. However, when there is a crisis it can be counterproductive.
Eating too much fiber can make symptoms like bloating, gas and diarrhea worse. It’s best to minimize your intake of whole grains, nuts, seeds, greens, and other sources of this nutrient during the outbreak. Of course, don’t stop eating them completely.
3. Avoid alcoholic beverages and stimulants
A key to coping with ulcerative colitis attacks is knowing how to choose drinks to keep the body hydrated. Without a doubt, water is the best alternative. However, some teas and infusions are also helpful. What should be completely avoided are alcoholic beverages or drinks with stimulating components.
Beer, wine, coffee and sodas add to the intestinal problem and make the diarrhea worse. Soft drinks are more problematic, as they produce more gas buildup.
4. Eat small meals
Another measure that can help relieve the symptoms of this disease is make a better distribution of meals. Instead of having three main meals, it is better to choose to eat five meals in smaller portions. This reduces the load on the digestive system and promotes intestinal balance.
5. Manage your stress
It is clear that stress is not a direct cause of this pathology. However, Knowing how to manage it is crucial to minimize its symptoms. Being exposed to constant episodes of stress and anxiety can trigger outbreaks. Some measures to minimize this include:
- Get moderate exercise.
- Access to therapeutic massages.
- Enjoy the aromatherapy sessions.
- Meditate and do yoga.
Do you have this disease? Don’t forget to ask for regular medical checkups. Although there will be asymptomatic periods, it is better to know for sure how this problem evolves.
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