Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disease that causes inflammation in the colon and the rectum lining. The rectum is found at the end of the large intestine, where solid wastes are stored. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a group of diseases classified as Inflammatory Bowel Disease. It is a long-term condition. The large intestine absorbs the stools’ water and converts it from liquid to solid. If a person has UC, it causes loss of colon lining, leading to pus formation, bleeding, diarrhea, and discomfort in the abdominal area.

Causes of ulcerative colitis
Doctors have yet to isolate one or more causes for ulcerative colitis. They have been able to identify many triggers like meal plans and stress, which can aggravate the condition. Doctors generally believe that it is an autoimmune condition where an abnormal immune response begins to attack the cells in the digestive system leading to inflammation. Heredity also may play a role as existing data shows that it runs in families. Doctors have also noticed some gene abnormalities in patients affected by UC.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis
The symptoms of ulcerative colitis are usually mild to moderate. Only a few patients diagnosed with UC may have severe symptoms that could be severe, frequent, and may need immediate medical attention. The common symptoms of UC are as follows:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Anemia
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of weight
• Bleeding in the rectum
• Dehydration
• Lesions in the skin
• Growth inhibition in children
• Bloody diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Joint pain and osteoporosis
• Kidney stones
• Liver disease
• Irritation in the eye

Treatment of ulcerative colitis
Doctors diagnose UC with the help of blood and stool exams catheterized tests like sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy. They may also use imaging tests like a CT scan or a Barium enema X-ray to diagnose more precisely. Once they can accurately confirm UC, they combine one or more of the following methods for treating the patients.

Prescription
Treating the patients with a prescription created by a doctor is the first line of treatment that can bring about immediate relief. It’s is also crucial to improve symptoms and prevent them from recurring.

Inpatient treatment
If a patient does not improve after treatment options, doctors may recommend hospitalization to observe and treat them. Hospitalization could be necessary for severe diarrhea, anemia, or dehydration. They may use tube feeding, special nutrition and rest to see a patient’s recovery. If the patient continues to exhibit symptoms of UC, they may decide on surgical options.

Surgery for UC
The standard surgical procedure that helps recover UC is Ileoanal pouch anastomosis. Commonly known as J-Pouch surgery, doctors remove the large intestine, colon, and rectum. It allows you to eliminate waste usually. Doctors use this as a last resort only if the patient does not show any improvement in treatment options. Doctors may also do this if they detect precancerous cells in the colon or the rectum during exams.

Right food and nutrition
Food and nutrition are as essential as the treatment options of UC. The doctors and nutritionists counsel patients to follow a food regime that reduces the symptoms of UC and supplies them with enough nutrition for the body. Along with food, doctors may recommend supplements to ensure that patients get a good supply of vitamins and minerals. The ideal meal for patients with UC is the absence of items that can trigger or aggravate any UC symptoms and include safe and nutritious items.

UC patients are advised to pay attention to what they eat, as the symptoms can impact their daily life. They should avoid foods that are difficult to digest and those that cause bloating or trigger diarrhea. You can make a food journal to record what you eat, and over time you will be able to identify what is safe for you and what may trigger your UC symptoms.

Foods to include for UC

• Applesauce (avoid during a flare-up)
• Salmon
• Squash
• Avocado
• Probiotics, buttermilk, and yogurt
• Instant oatmeal
• Refined grains
• Eggs
• Mineral-rich fruits and vegetables

Foods to avoid

• Caffeine
• Dairy rich products
• Carbonated drinks
• High-fiber food
• Potato
• Popcorn
• Food rich in sulfur
• Fat meat
• Nuts and nut butter
• Vegetables rich in fiber
• Gas-causing vegetables
• Gluten-rich foods
• Spicy foods