Ulcerative colitis (UC) causes irritation and ulcers (open sores) in the large intestine. This unpredictable and chronic inflammatory bowel disease is part of the group of conditions called Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) and can be extremely disruptive if not managed properly.
Flare-ups can happen at any time. Knowing how to manage returning symptoms and recognizing triggers can make a big difference to the time in-between and the severity. There are several ways to ease ulcerative colitis pain and cope with flare-ups. Read on to find six easy strategies that help keep patients in remission and manage their condition better.
Get Some Exercise
Regular physical activity can boost a person’s mood, relieve stress, and improve depression which often goes hand in hand with UC. Exercise is also known to suppress inflammation and help people feel better. Find a type of exercise that’s enjoyable and incorporate it into a daily routine. Even adding a few low-intensity activities can make a big difference overall.
Watch Fiber Intake
Too much fiber can trigger UC flare-ups. Try to eat more low fiber foods like refined carbohydrates, fish, meats, eggs, tofu, and some cooked fruits without the skin or seeds.
Consume vegetables once they are steamed, baked, or roasted, as cooking cuts down the amount of fiber consumed.
Learn to Relax
Lowering the body’s inflammatory response can help avoid a flare-up or overcome them faster. Try meditation, deep breathing exercises, get plenty of sleep, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks. If this doesn’t help, try going to a health professional for medication and counseling.
Keep Track of Food Consumed.
Writing a daily food journal can help find foods that trigger flare-ups and reduce or remove them altogether.
Avoid Large Meals
Eating between five to six small meals instead of just three massive ones can help reduce abdominal pain or diarrhea.
Consult a Doctor
People with UC require treatment to manage this illness. Mild or moderate symptoms can show some improvement thanks to timely diagnosis, medication, and learning to avoid triggers.
A few severe cases reaequire hospitalization, but those cases make up a minuscule percentage of the overall number. However, flare-ups that happen repeatedly can require an alteration of current treatment or adjustment of prescribed medication to keep the condition in remission.
