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Discover the Shocking Secrets of What to Expect in the Long Term!



Exploring Ulcerative Colitis: What You Need to Know

Living with Ulcerative Colitis: A Comprehensive Guide

The Basics of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic condition that can present mild to moderate symptoms, which can be unpredictable in nature. Many individuals live with UC for decades, managing their symptoms through various treatments and lifestyle adjustments.

What can you expect in the future as someone with UC? Will you be able to gain better control over your symptoms and lead a fulfilling life?

Remission and its Definitions

UC is characterized as a relapsing-remitting disease, meaning symptoms may come and go over time. Remission in UC varies and can have different definitions based on symptom control and treatment side effects. Clinical remission, endoscopic remission, and deep remission are common types observed in individuals with UC.

Understanding Deep Remission

While deep remission may seem like a cure for UC, the reality is that surgery remains the sole cure for the condition. Despite being in deep remission, there is still a possibility of experiencing future flares. It is crucial to remain vigilant and continue treatment under medical guidance.

Managing Symptoms and Flares

Recognizing the signs of symptom recurrence is essential in managing UC effectively. Diarrhea with blood, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and fatigue are common indicators of a flare. Regular communication with healthcare providers is vital in addressing any changes in symptoms or disease progression.

Strategies for Long-Term Management

Quitting smoking, staying active, reducing stress, and identifying trigger foods can aid in symptom management and prolong periods of remission. Additionally, finding effective medications and undergoing regular medical evaluations are crucial aspects of long-term UC control.

Looking Towards the Future

Understanding the dynamics of UC and adopting proactive measures can positively impact disease progression and overall quality of life. By staying informed and actively engaging in treatment approaches, individuals with UC can navigate their journey with confidence and resilience.

Summary

Ulcerative colitis is a complex condition that requires long-term management and vigilance. By understanding the nuances of remission, recognizing symptom patterns, and engaging in proactive strategies, individuals can lead fulfilling lives while effectively controlling their UC.

Remember to consult with healthcare professionals regularly and seek support from loved ones and patient communities to navigate the challenges of living with UC.



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Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a long-term disease that you will likely live with for decades. Most people have mild to moderate symptoms, but they can be unpredictable: they come on and then subside. So what can you expect in the future? Will you be able to control your symptoms better?

Can UC go into remission?

Ulcerative colitis is what experts call a relapsing-remitting disease. This means that symptoms come and go over time. There may be months or even years when you will not have any symptoms.

There is no single definition of what it means to be in remission with UC. Your doctor might say it is the balance between controlling your symptoms and the side effects of treatment. But a better overall quality of life may be the most important thing to you, like enjoying a symptom-free social life.

Depending on how you measure it, about half of Americans with UC are in remission, says Ugo Iroku, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist at New York Gastroenterology Associates. The other half have symptoms that range from mild to severe.

In general, there are three types of UC remission:

  • Clinical remission. This is the most basic type of remission: no stomach pain, diarrhea, or blood in the stool.
  • Endoscopic referral. If you have no symptoms and no intestinal inflammation, you are probably in endoscopic remission. Your doctor will look for inflammation during a colonoscopy, a test that uses a small camera connected to a thin, flexible tube.
  • Deep remission (histological). This is the strongest level of remission. Doctors look for three things: absence of symptoms, inflammation, or signs of UC at the cellular level under a microscope.

Does deep remission mean I’m cured?

At this time, the only cure for UC is surgery to remove the colon and rectum. Even when you’re in deep remission, there’s still a chance you’ll have a flare in the future.

Being symptom-free for a long time can give you false confidence that you are completely cured of UC.

“It’s human nature,” Iroku says. He says being in remission makes it easier for him to go about his daily life and stop controlling his condition.

“When people are in deep remission, they sometimes stop taking their medications. Unfortunately, the risk of experiencing an outbreak increases. It’s a story we see all the time. The good thing is that there are usually things we can do to try to achieve [UC] under control again.”

Reminds people living with UC to talk to their doctor before stopping a medication.

What can I expect if symptoms return?

It’s important to know your body when you have a long-term illness like UC, where symptoms appear and disappear. Understand yours and keep them on your radar. You may be defecating more than normal or feeling more pain. Other signs include:

  • Diarrhea with blood or pus.
  • Stomach pain and cramps
  • Pain or bleeding in the rectum.
  • Strong urge to defecate
  • Problems defecating
  • Weightloss
  • Exhausted
  • Fever

“These are the first red lights flashing on the dashboard that should prompt you to talk to your doctor,” Iroku says.

Things that aggravate your condition (certain foods or medications) may change over time. As you age, your body, including your gastrointestinal system, may become more sensitive to irritation.

You and your doctor can also work together to determine whether your symptoms are really a UC flare or a sign of something else, such as irritable bowel syndrome, an infection, or a side effect of a medication.

One of the best predictors of a future UC flare is whether you are having one right now. If you have active ulcerative colitis this year, your chances of having a flare next year are about 70%. This also means that if you are in remission today, your chances of remaining symptom-free also increase.

Quitting smoking, staying active, reducing stress, and avoiding trigger foods will help keep symptoms at bay longer.

Medications that work well are also essential for controlling flare-ups. A long remission can make it difficult for you and your doctor to know if a medication is working. It may take some time to find one that helps you feel better. Be sure to visit your doctor regularly and stay up to date with testing, even when you don’t have symptoms.

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