Ulcerative colitis what is a flare up

A variety of symptoms can characterize UC, and the combination and severity can vary from person to person. Certain foods and drinks can also make UC symptoms worse. It is important to note which foods and drinks can trigger or worsen symptoms and to avoid them, especially during flares.

A large part of treating UC involves preventing and controlling flares. This can require different approaches for different people. Below, find some strategies that often help:. A diet plan can be crucial to preventing and managing flares.

It might involve having a list of foods and drinks that do not trigger symptoms or a full meal plan that incorporates them. A doctor or dietitian can help recommend options and improve the healthfulness of a plan.

To identify safe and triggering foods, it can help to keep a journal that tracks meals and any symptoms. Managing stress is an important part of a UC prevention plan, as stress may trigger flares. Among the many ways to manage stress levels are exercise, therapy, and relaxation techniques or relaxing activities.

A doctor can prescribe a variety of medications to treat bowel inflammation. Current guidelines recommend long-term treatment with one of the following types of drug. A person can take it in pill form or as suppositories to reduce inflammation. Newer treatment options aim to reduce the need for steroid use. Steroids have an anti-inflammatory effect, but doctors only prescribe them for short-term use, if other medications are not working.

They are not a first-line choice because they can cause side effects and long-term complications. A doctor may suggest surgery if dietary changes and medications are not working or further complications have developed.

While surgery is usually a last resort, several options can help:. When an ulcerative colitis flare strikes, you have options for getting your life back on track. And remember to always let your doctor know when new or persistent symptoms arise. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics. Health Tools. Ulcerative Colitis. Reviewed: August 25, Medically Reviewed.

Another possibility is that the medication you've been taking has stopped working and needs to be changed. Mixing medications Antibiotics as well as over-the-counter pain relievers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs like Advil ibuprofen and Aleve naproxen have also been linked to flares. Stress Many people with ulcerative colitis associate stress with a flare.

According to a review published in the journal Frontiers in Pediatrics in , there is a growing body of evidence to suggest stress can not only exacerbate symptoms of IBD but also may lead to a relapse in some patients. Food Some people associate certain foods such as raw fruits and vegetables and fried, greasy, fatty or spicy foods with causing ulcerative colitis symptoms. Doctors recommend keeping a food journal to see if certain foods trigger a reaction.

Saclarides, MD , a colon and rectal surgeon at Rush University Medical Group in Chicago, suggests calling your doctor if you have any of these ulcerative colitis symptoms: Severe abdominal pain that lasts more than 24 hours A decrease in bowel movements along with abdominal pain Abdominal pain with a high fever Blood during a bowel movement that is too thick to see through Your UC Flare Management Plan Your doctor may help you deal with a flare by changing your medications or offering new ones.

There are also some things you can do at home to temper a flare. Have a discreet way to ask for access to restricted restrooms if you have symptoms. And get updates, resources and more sent to your inbox. Available as a card and mobile wallet version for your phone.

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