Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease that affects the digestive tract. It mainly causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine (colon), which can vary from severe to mild. Ulcerative colitis has no cure, and it can sometimes have life-threatening complications, putting the patient at risk of colon cancer. But one can control the symptoms with the proper treatment and nutrition. Here are the essential factors to know about the health condition.

Causes of ulcerative colitis
Doctors have not found a definite cause of ulcerative colitis yet. But they say that several factors can increase the chances of developing the disease. These include:

• Fault in the immune system
  One risk factor is a fault in the immune system, the body’s protective defense against infections. Researchers believe that the immune system starts attacking the healthy tissues in the colon, causing damage and inflation.
• Genetics
  Genetics is another factor thought to be involved in developing this disease. According to research, almost one in four people with ulcerative colitis have a family history of the condition.
• Age
  The disease is most likely to occur in people between the ages of 15 to 30 and those above 60. However, people who do not belong to these age groups can also get affected.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis
The symptoms depend on the intensity of inflammation in the colon and can be more severe in the advanced stages. The signs to look out for are:

• Diarrhea containing blood, pus, or mucus
• Stomach pain
• Recurring bowel movements
• Extreme fatigue
• Weight changes
• Appetite loss
• Severe cramping
• Fever

Some people might go for months on end with little or no symptoms. But when they do occur, the symptoms are more bothersome. It could be in the form of mouth ulcers, red or itchy eyes, and painful and swollen skin and joints.

Treatment options for ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis is chronic and has no cure. But there are several ways to control the symptoms so that patients can live a life as normal as possible. The treatments also control flare-ups and give the colon a chance to heal.

Anti-inflammatory treatments are the most popular. Since inflammation in the colon is the number one problem in ulcerative colitis, doctors recommend anti-inflammatory options to control the inflammation and provide much-needed relief. They also suggest treatments that prevent the immune system from becoming overactive and attacking the colon, which triggers inflammation in the first place.

In severe cases, surgery is used. The primary surgical procedure for ulcerative colitis involves removing the entire colon and rectum. After these organs are removed, two alternative options can help the person pass stool. One is a J-pouch surgery, where a pouch is constructed from the end of the small intestine and attached to the anus, allowing the patient to expel waste the usual way. Another option is to make a permanent opening in the abdomen with an attached bag for the stool to pass and collect.

The best treatment option depends on several factors, such as the patient’s age, their health situation, and the severity of the disease. Sometimes, a combination of the above might be recommended.

Home remedies for ulcerative colitis
Natural and home remedies are not meant to treat ulcerative colitis on their own but to manage the symptoms and support ongoing treatment. A holistic lifestyle along with stress management are the most helpful. In addition, one can try the following after consulting with a doctor:

• Healthy nutrition
  Eating healthy strengthens the body, giving it the power to fight infections. Ulcerative colitis patients must eat low-fiber foods while avoiding unhealthy fats, greasy foods, and dairy products, as these can lead to flare-ups.
• Herbal remedies
  Many herbs can help manage inflammation in the body, including the intestine. Turmeric and winter cherry are preferred options as these have the best anti-inflammatory properties.
• Exercise
  Regular exercise can help manage emotional and physical health, which is essential to prevent complications caused due to ulcerative colitis. Yoga exercises that target the digestive system can also help with healing.

Those who experience the symptoms of ulcerative colitis must visit the doctor immediately. Although a chronic disease, it can be controlled with a healthy lifestyle comprising anti-inflammatory foods, regular exercise, a stress-free environment, and a proper treatment plan.