How to Prevent Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by ulcers along the lining of the large intestines. This painful disorder affects about one million Americans between the ages of 15 and 70. Unfortunately, there is no known cause of ulcerative colitis. Thus, there isn’t a way to prevent the disorder. Still, there are ways to stay in remission and prevent relapses or flare-ups.

Instructions

• 1

  Take anti-inflammatory drugs. Since ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disease, the best way to prevent a flare-up is to take anti-inflammatory drugs. Over the counter medications such as ibuprofen are ineffective. In this instance, doctors generally prescribe steroids.

• 2

  Get rid of stress and relax. With any type of inflammatory disorder, stress and anxiety can aggravate the condition and cause a flare-up. Ulcerative colitis is also classified as a gastrointestinal disorder. Thus, it’s vital to reduce anxiety and learn how to cope with stress.

• 3

  Remove spicy foods from diet. Remission periods are common with ulcerative colitis. To stay in remission, it’s best to stay away from spicy dishes. The ingredients may irritate the lining of the small intestines and cause new ulcers to develop.

• 4

  Stop consuming milk and other dairy products. Aside from spicy foods, milk and dairy products such as cheese and ice cream can bring on a flare-up, or worsen an existing flare-up. Persons who live with ulcerative colitis ought to take calcium and vitamin D supplements.

• 5

  Stay away from antibiotics. In some instances, antibiotics can cause a flare-up. Whenever possible, choose a different treatment method such as natural or alternative drugs.