Treatment Options for Ulcerative Colitis
Despite a cure for ulcerative colitis not yet being a reality, there are a number of effective treatments, including medications and other therapies.
Medications and Surgery
Medications and surgery are the two most common and reliable treatment options for ulcerative colitis. As mentioned, it may take time to find the medication that works well and offers the fewest side effects; any medication always includes risks and benefits. Another commonly relied-on treatment option is surgery.
One such surgery is known as ileoanal anastomosis, which sees the removal of the colon and rectum. The anus is retained; a pouch designed to collect stool is then attached to the anus. When a pouch cannot be connected to the anus, the stool is passed into a bag through a small opening, known as a ileal stoma, in the abdomen.
Settle Down the Flare-ups
First, flare-ups can be better managed by reducing the stress in one’s life. Managing stress is possible; work toward achieving a solid night’s sleep every night. Eat well, and be physically active on more days than you are not active. Try developing habits that have been proven to reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga, and exercise.
As mentioned, avoiding ulcerative colitis flare-ups is critical to managing this disease. Keep a journal of your symptoms so that you can best identify your triggers. Discuss these triggers with your healthcare team. Many find that NSAIDS (non-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen) can aggravate the disease.
Which Medications and Drugs are Best for Ulcerative Colitis?
There are several effective medications for ulcerative colitis that you should discuss with your healthcare team. The well-respected John Hopkins Medicine organization advises that nearly “seventy percent of patients respond well to medication and go into remission.” Finding a suitable medication regime may take time and trial and error like many other diseases.
However, it's important to remember that your healthcare team is there to guide you through this highly individualized process, ensuring that your unique needs and circumstances are taken into account. On some occasions, a combination of drug therapies is used.
Immunosuppressive medications and biologics are the drugs most often used to treat ulcerative colitis.
Immunosuppressive medications, such as azathioprine and mercaptopurine, work to slow the immune response that causes the painful swelling within the colon and rectum. Biologics, such as Entyvio, decrease inflammation without leading to widespread immunosuppression. Biologics are drugs that are actually made from living cells, similar to vaccines and insulin.
How Anti-inflammatory Medications May Help
The Mayo Clinic describes anti-inflammatory medications as the most appropriate and best first option for those with ulcerative colitis. The Mayo Clinic advises that both 5-aminosalicylates and corticosteroids are solid options. 5-aminosalicylates include Azulfidine, Delzicol, and Dipentum. Depending on which part of the intestine is affected, these drugs may be taken orally, as a suppository or in the form of an enema.
Other medications that work to minimize inflammation are immune system suppressors.
These drugs include azathioprine and mercaptopurine; taking these drugs requires vigilant medical supervision, including regular blood checks to monitor any potential effects on the liver or pancreas. Other immunosuppressant medications include cyclosporine, which is reserved for those who have not found adequate relief from other medications.
Alternatives to Better Manage Your Symptoms
There are a number of other medications that can help manage the daily symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis and its life-limiting symptoms. Antispasmodics may ease the painful cramping linked to the disease, and acetaminophen can relieve milder episodes of pain.
It's essential to avoid ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac sodium, which can actually increase the painful symptoms and aggravate the disease. If diarrhea occurs, an anti-diarrheal medication such as loperamide might provide some relief, but talk to your healthcare team first, as these drugs may have adverse effects.
Of course, as the digestive system is heavily involved with ulcerative colitis, some foods may be a trigger. Many with the disease avoid dairy and high-fiber foods. Speak with a registered dietician to determine your best diet to avoid missing out on essential nutrients.
What is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is one of several inflammatory bowel diseases that affect the lining of the large intestine, which includes the colon and rectum. Symptoms of this painful disease can be life-altering and life-limiting. These severe symptoms include rectal bleeding, diarrhea, cramping, weight loss, fatigue, and even fever.
It's important to remember that while there is not yet a cure for ulcerative colitis, there is hope through various medical and surgical treatment options. As suggested, keep track of your symptoms and discuss which treatments may be best for you with your doctor.