Ulcerative colitis flare-ups can be hard to predict, especially if youverecently been diagnosed.Andthey can ruin your day.
When you have these symptoms or others, doctors call it an ulcerative colitis flare-up.
As anyone with UC will tell you, you want to avoid these at all costs.
Ulcerative colitis flares can occur due to stress and food triggers, among other things.
Sometimes these symptoms are worse or different than a previous flare-ups.
Ulcerative colitis remission
Theres good news and bad news when it comes toulcerative colitis remission.
Remission periods can last for weeks, months, and even years, according to the NIDDK.
The bad news is that remission isnt always permanent.
In that case, you may need to adjust your treatment plan.
Its possible for flare-ups to resolve on their own, but they may also lead to worsening symptoms.
Its best to talk with your doctor instead of trying to ride it out.
Causes of flare-ups
Both lifestyle and medication factors can bring on symptoms.
There are a few that should be avoided.
The relationship between ulcerative colitis and diet is pretty complex and calls for much more research.
Its easy to think that missing a dose here or there wont impact your ulcerative colitis.
But a medication holiday isnt the kind of holiday you want to take.
Excess alcohol consumptioncan worsen your symptoms.
you’re able to also call the toll-free national smoking quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).
Gut infections can add insult to injury for those with ulcerative colitis.
When you have an infection with stomach-upset side effects, your ulcerative colitis can naturally flare up.
But some NSAIDs can trigger ulcerative colitis flares.
Making the swap to other kinds of pain relievers, like acetaminophen, can help.
As if you didnt already know,stressaffects a whole host of bodily functions.
Ulcerative colitis is no exception.
Mood changes that stress you mentally can in turn stress you physically.
This can happen with regular stress that may fluctuate from day to day.
But its also a factor in how diagnosable mental health conditions may affect your ulcerative colitis.
But this cycle can go both ways.
Whats more, these kinds of mental health conditions often disproportionately impact women, Dr. Charabaty points out.
With that said, there are still overall good ulcerative colitis habits to practice.
When this is the case, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove damaged parts of your colon.
If your symptoms get this bad, surgery may be the best or only choice.
When to see a doctor
Maybe its food poisoning or a stomach bug.
Ireallydont want to bother the doctor.
The big takeaway
Ulcerative colitis can feel like a roller coaster.
Overall, be proactive in the care of your ulcerative colitis, Dr. Charabarty advises.
