Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis – Ulcerative Colitis is an autoimmune disease with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. Ulcerative colitis affects the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. Symptoms usually develop over time, rather than suddenly.

Is Ulcerative Colitis an Autoimmune Disease?

Yes, Ulcerative Colitis is an autoimmune disease. UC can be debilitating and can sometimes lead to life-threatening complications. While it has no known cure, treatment can greatly reduce signs and symptoms of the disease and even bring about long-term remission.

Questions to Ask a Ulcerative Colitis Doctor (Gastroengtologist)

• Will diet aid in healing? (this is a good way to ask without making them feel threatened. If the answer is no…run!) 
• How do I contact the office if I’m having problems or complications?
• Do you have an online portal for quick communication?
• How quickly can I be seen in an emergency?
• Do you offer alternative methods of healing alongside medicine? (dietary and supplemental approaches to correct deficiencies, alongside more extensive blood work)
• How often do you take labs, and what will you be testing for? (Many medications require testing, and many doctors do not keep up with this. It is good to know the doctor’s approach to this, and compare to the medication’s suggestions).
• What is your philosophy on colonoscopies? (Routine, or when symptomatic? *compare this to your philosophy)
• Do you believe in a bottom-up or top-down approach? *insurance may play a huge part in this*

Questions to Ask On-going Ulcerative Colitis Doctor (Gastroengtologist)

• Pre-treatment for infusions (to prevent reactions) 
• How often do you take labs, and what will you be testing for? *When being placed on a new medication (Many medications require testing, and many doctors do not keep up with this. It is good to know the doctor’s approach to this, and compare to the medication’s suggestions).
• Are there certain patients who can eventually be medication free, or do you continue medication for precaution? 

Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis

To establish an ulcerative colitis diagnosis, you must first meet with your primary care doctor and if necessary, get a referral to a local Gastroenterologist. They were perform blood tests and any additional tests to determine whether you can receive an ulcerative colitis diagnosis or rule this autoimmune disease out.

Treatment for Ulcerative Colitis

Journaling, Yoga, Prayer /Devotions, Meditation, Gaba, Ashwagandha, 5HTP, Fish Oil (correct DHA to EPA), Exercise (what exercise works best for autoimmunity in general? what exercise works best for your body personally?), Infrared Sauna

Ulcerative Colitis Medications

+Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug

+ Antibiotics

+ Anti-inflammatory

+ Immunosuppressive drug,

+ Steroid, Analgesic, and Dietary supplement

Ulcerative Colitis Causes

Ulcerative Colitis vs Crohn’s Disease

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