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What Are the Treatments for Ulcerative Colitis?

by Therese Pope

Overview

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disease that causes sores and ulcers inside the lining of the colon, rectum and intestines. It can cause diarrhea, rectal bleeding and stomach pain. Treatment for ulcerative colitis depends upon the severity of the disease. Some patients suffer from mild to severe symptoms. Patients should consult a medical doctor to discuss appropriate treatment options. If pain or bleeding becomes severe, patients should seek immediate medical attention.
Mild Symptoms - Treatment Options

For patients who suffer from mild ulcerative colitis symptoms, anti-diarrhea medicine (which can be bought at a local drugstore) and dietary changes can alleviate symptoms. Since each case is different, patients should discuss their mild symptoms and treatment options with a medical doctor. Sometimes other diseases cause similar symptoms and should be treated accordingly.

Moderate Symptoms - Prescription Medication

Patients who suffer from moderate symptoms are usually prescribed medication by doctors. The most common prescription medication administered are corticosteroids such as prednasone and hydrocortisone. Another medication prescribed is aminosalicylates (such as meslamine). These medications reduce inflammation inside the colon, rectum and intestines.
Severe Symptoms - Immunomodulator Medication

Immunomodulators act as a immune system suppressant and stop inflammation. Doctors also prescribe infliximab to put patients into remission when other medications don't work. Infliximab also helps heal the intestinal lining.
Dietary Changes

Certain foods should be avoided by ulcerative colitis patients. Some foods will make symptoms worse. Patients should avoid spicy foods, high fiber foods and green, leafy vegetables. Fiber and roughage can irritate the intestines and colon and cause diarrhea and inflammation. Patients should consult a registered dietitian and a medical doctor to discuss their dietary plan. By sticking to an appropriate diet, patients can maintain their ulcerative colitis and avoid attacks.
Warning

Patients should never self-diagnose a medical condition. People should seek immediate medical attention if they experience stomach pain, rectal bleeding or chronic diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis can only be determined by a medical doctor or gastroenterologist (a doctor specializing in gastrointestinal conditions/disesae). Ulcerative colitis should be carefully monitored by a physician. If left untreated, the patient will be putting his health at risk. Surgery may be needed to repair any resulting long-term damage to the colon, rectum or intestines.