Treating ulcerative colitis involves more than one would expect. You have to consider your symptoms and the time of the disease's occurrence. Luckily, there are various constructive medication and treatment solutions you can use.
While the treatment of ulcerative colitis involves numerous techniques, this guide looks at the major highlights:
Prescriptions
There are many categories of medications that you can use to address ulcerative colitis, including:
Anti Inflammatories
These are drugs that are helpful as the first line of treatment against the disease and can include:
5-aminosalicylates, which you can consume in various ways, including orally or as a suppository. The common types include Delzicol and Dipentum.
Corticosteroids such as Hydrocortisone and Prednisone. These are suitable for moderate to severe cases of the disease because of these drugs' potency. Some side effects of excessive usage including increased blood pressure, emotional disability, and various others.
Immune System Suppressors
These medications help regulate the inflammation that occurs due to the immune system's response mechanism. The drugs in this category include:
Asian and Imuran fall in the category of immunosuppressant's, and they work by adjusting the production of the body's DNA molecules.
You can use Gengraf and Sandimmune, which medical health experts prescribe to people who have struggled with other medications. A good example would be Cyclosporine.
Antibiotics
These refer to medication that health experts prescribe for any health issues that might have occurred to the colon. However, people with Ulcerative Colitis sometimes have to avoid using the drug as it can lead to diarrhea.
Some researchers have also shown the strong relationship between patients who use antibiotics and the occurrence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
Over the Counter Therapies
These refer to medications that help control the symptoms that can occur due to ulcerative colitis. However, they work well alongside prescription drugs, as they only suppress some of the diseases' symptoms. The common OTC medications can include:
Antidiarrheal medications help regulate unusual bowel movements. A good example would be loperamide, but you have to use it with caution.
Pain relievers work well for addressing issues such as mild pain, with a good example being Tylenol.
Complementary Medicine (CAM)
While some medications are highly effective for controlling the symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis, many experts believe more research should occur in this field. Here are the common drugs that fall in this category:
Probiotics or "stomach-friendly bacteria" help suppress the effects of the disease and compromised bower functions.
You can use Aloe Vera gel, which one can extract from the inside of the plan using DIY techniques.
Lifestyle Changes
Similar to all other health issues, making lifestyle changes can considerably impact the management of ulcerative colitis. The common suggestions include:
You have to avoid spicy foods because they can irritate the bowel and lead to various issues like diarrhea.
You also have to Limit fat and fiber consumption because these can worsen your symptoms.
You also have to Avoid alcohol consumption as it's highly acidic and can also irritate your bowel.
Avoid certain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs such as aspirin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ulcerative Colitis Have a Cure?
No, ulcerative colitis has no well-known cure. However, going for treatments such as surgery and using the proper medications can have many benefits.
How Long Will it Take to Treat Ulcerative Colitis?
It takes a few days or weeks for ulcerative colitis to be healthy effectively. In some cases, remission can occur for months, depending on the treatment approach you choose.
