What to Do When Ulcerative Colitis Flares
Managing ulcerative colitis (UC) flares involves a combination of medical interventions, lifestyle adjustments, and self-care strategies. Here are some steps you can take when experiencing a UC flare:
1. Contact your healthcare provider:
Immediately contact your healthcare provider or gastroenterologist if you experience a flare. They will assess your symptoms, severity, and provide appropriate treatment recommendations.
2. Follow your prescribed medications:
Ensure that you are strictly adhering to your prescribed medications, including anti-inflammatories, immunosuppressants, or steroids. Adjust the dosage or frequency only as directed by your doctor.
3. Maintain hydration:
Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially when experiencing diarrhea. Water, electrolyte drinks, and broth are good options.
4. Adjust your diet:
Follow a bland diet, avoiding foods known to trigger symptoms for you. Focus on easily digestible foods like rice, cooked vegetables, and lean meats. Avoid spicy, fatty, or high-fiber foods.
5. Rest and manage stress:
Rest is essential during a flare. Stress can also exacerbate symptoms, so practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle exercises (if permitted by your doctor).
6. Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):
NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen can worsen UC symptoms, so avoid them unless specifically recommended by your doctor.
7. Monitor symptoms:
Keep a symptom journal to track your bowel movements, severity of symptoms, and any other relevant observations. This information can help your doctor monitor your progress and adjust treatment if necessary.
8. Stay home:
Limit social outings, especially if you are experiencing severe symptoms, to reduce the risk of dehydration, accidents, or embarrassment.
9. Use the bathroom as needed:
Don't delay bowel movements as this can worsen symptoms. Regular bowel movements can help relieve discomfort.
10. Be cautious with over-the-counter medications:
Avoid taking over-the-counter medications unless explicitly approved by your doctor, as some can worsen your UC symptoms.
11. Inform others:
Let your family, friends, colleagues, or school administration know about your condition and limitations during a flare, so they can provide support accordingly.
12. Join support groups:
Consider joining reputable online or in-person support groups for individuals with UC, where you can connect with others facing similar challenges and share experiences.
13. Be patient and follow medical guidance:
Healing from a flare takes time. Follow your doctor's instructions, stay positive, and be patient as you work toward symptom relief and remission.
Remember, managing UC flares can be challenging, but by staying in close communication with your healthcare provider and implementing effective strategies, you can navigate these episodes and work toward long-term symptom control.