Is it possible to cure ulcerative colitis forever with folk remedies? Features of the treatment of nonspecific ulcerative colitis with folk remedies Nyak therapy

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The disease UC (nonspecific ulcerative colitis) is chronic and immune in nature. The exact reasons for its development have not yet been established by science. The risk group for the development of pathology includes all people, regardless of gender and age. However, in the interval from 20 to 40 years and from 60 to 70, more patients are diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis. The disease occurs in 50-80 people out of 100, the female population predominates. From 3 to 15 new cases are registered per year.

In this article you will learn:

The concept of pathology and its causes

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis (K51.9 in ICD-10) is a chronic inflammatory process in the large intestine, caused by the aggressive influence of cells of the rectum and colon on each other and accompanied by ulcerative lesions of the intestinal mucosa.

The pathology has no established etiology, which makes diagnosis and, accordingly, treatment difficult.

However, with a competent approach and correct therapy, UC is curable. You can achieve stable remission and significantly improve your quality of life. In 4% of cases, remission lasts 15 years.

Possible causes of UC include immune disorders and genetic predisposition. Any viruses and bacteria, infections or congenital pathologies can cause immune imbalance. If we follow the gene theory, then specific genes can provoke UC (they have so far been tentatively identified and not definitively confirmed).

Additionally, among the possible negative factors, the researchers identified smoking and non-compliance with nutritional rules, taking non-steroidal drugs, removal of appendicitis at an early age, and nervous strain.

The likelihood of a combination of external and internal factors has been noted (for example, the scheme “stress - activation of bacteria against the background of a decrease in the regulatory forces of the body”).

Forms of pathology

Atypical ulcerative colitis has several medical classifications. The forms of the disease and their description are presented in the table.

The total type is more susceptible to a severe course. The left-sided type is the most common (80 out of 100). The continuous type occurs in 10 cases out of 100.

Necrotizing ulcerative colitis is a separate type of pathology diagnosed in newborns (usually premature infants) who have been exposed to oxygen and nerve starvation in the womb. But it can also occur as a complication in severe colitis in adults. Characterized by cell death (the last advanced stage).

Signs of pathology

Symptoms of UC in adults include:

• bloody diarrhea with mucus and/or pus;
• discharge of blood from the anus outside of bowel movements;
• abdominal pain similar to contractions, intensifying after eating food;
• false urge to go to the toilet;
• swelling of the legs;
• despite frequent bowel movements, a feeling of incomplete emptying;
• bloating.

Signs of ulcerative colitis intensify as the pathology develops. Tachycardia and fever are added. Over time, noticeable weight loss occurs and signs of nutritional deficiencies are observed.

Symptoms in advanced stages are often supplemented by extraintestinal signs, which complicates the diagnosis and treatment of ulcerative colitis in adults.

Detection methods

Diagnosis of UC includes medical history, palpation and examination, and instrumental techniques:

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis of the intestine in women can be confused with gynecological pathologies, which requires additional consultation with a specialist. Treatment is carried out with hormonal drugs, which also requires consultation with a gynecologist.

Possible consequences

Disability from ulcerative colitis and death are the worst complications. You can maintain your ability to work at a mild stage of the disease. Disability group 3 allows for some work.

Inflammation tends to spread and affect other organs (eyes, mouth, bones and joints, skin). For the intestines, the progression of the disease is dangerous due to oncology. There is a risk of fistulas and abscesses.

The most common complications are narrowing, obstruction, persistent bleeding, perforation and dilatation of the intestine. The latter is dangerous due to rupture. Any of these complications require immediate hospitalization.

The first thing to do in the event of an exacerbation of UC is to go to the hospital for qualified help, the purpose of which is to relieve the attack.

Traditional treatment

Treatment of ulcerative colitis with drugs involves taking corticosteroids (Prednisolone, Budesonide), 5-ASA (Mesalazine, Colazal), antidepressants (Methotrexate) and cytostatic drugs (Infliximab). In severe cases with severe fever and strong signs of inflammation, antibiotics (Metronidazole) are used.

To eliminate symptoms, medications that relieve pain and stop diarrhea (Loperamide) are prescribed. If necessary, rehydration is carried out, the body is saturated with iron.

5-ASA is usually prescribed as an anti-inflammatory agent. The use of corticosteroids is indicated only during periods of severe exacerbation of the second and third degrees of severity of the disease and for only a few months.

The goal of treatment at present is to eliminate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent relapses. However, new treatments for ulcerative colitis are being developed regularly. Research is being conducted on the effectiveness of innovative topical drugs based on bioprocesses and gene structures. In Israel, Remicade, an anti-TNF drug (tumor necrosis factor), is actively used in practice.

If a combination of medications, diet and physiotherapy is ineffective, surgical treatment is indicated: resection with anastomosis or segmental resection.

Traditional therapy

Non-traditional methods of treatment include suppositories and a solution of mumiyo, infusions of herbs and plants (chamomile, mint, blueberries, nettle, St. John's wort, celandine), propolis, honey, sea buckthorn.

Treatment of UC with folk remedies will eliminate symptoms, calm the central nervous system, have an anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, analgesic effect, normalize intestinal function, and restore water-salt balance. Strong green tea and infusion of chamomile and St. John's wort will help in the treatment of UC during exacerbation.

Physiotherapy

For nonspecific ulcerative colitis, it is based on current treatment (diadynamic and interference therapy, SMT). In addition, physiotherapy such as vibration therapy, mineral waters, warm baths, mud, and compresses will help treat ulcerative colitis of the intestine.

You will learn more about nonspecific ulcerative colitis from the video:

Prevention of pathology

At the time of acute relapse of chronic ulcerative colitis, you should completely refuse food. You can drink water. Sometimes intravenous nutrition is prescribed. During the remission phase, it is recommended to adhere to table No. 4. Do not irritate or injure the intestinal mucosa. Protein should predominate among the nutrients.

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis is a rare pathology and not fully understood. Some consider genetic predisposition as the main cause, others consider the influence of external factors, including alcohol, smoking, stress and poor diet. We will not dwell for long on the causes of the disease - this publication is devoted to such an issue as the treatment of ulcerative colitis with medications and folk remedies.

What is ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease of the large intestine, which is the part of the digestive system where water is removed from undigested food, leaving digestive waste behind. The large intestine ends with a rectum, which, in turn, passes into the anus. In patients with ulcerative colitis, the lining of the intestines becomes inflamed, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. Next, we will talk about the features of the disease nonspecific ulcerative colitis, the symptoms, treatment of which will be discussed in detail.

Ulcerative colitis is often associated with an inflammatory disease such as Crohn's disease. Together, these two diseases can be combined under the term inflammatory bowel disease. Ulcerative colitis, along with Crohn's disease, are chronic diseases that can last for years or decades. Men and women suffer equally. The development of pathology most often begins in adolescence or early adulthood, but there are also cases of this disease in young children.

Very often, residents of Europe and America, as well as people of Jewish origin, are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. The population of Asian countries and representatives of the Negroid race are more fortunate in this regard - the pathology is extremely rare among them. For unknown reasons, an increased incidence of this disease has recently been observed in developing countries. There is also a high likelihood of developing colitis in those whose relatives are familiar with this diagnosis.

What are the causes of ulcerative colitis

No reliable factors for the development of colitis have been identified, and at present there is no convincing evidence that it is an infectious disease. Most experts are inclined to believe that ulcerative colitis occurs due to dysfunction of the immune system in the intestines. In this case, there is an abnormal activation of immune cells and proteins, the activity of which leads to inflammation. The predisposition to abnormal immune activation is genetically inherited. Scientists have discovered about 30 genes that can increase the likelihood of developing colitis. Read more about ulcerative colitis of the intestine, symptoms, treatment of the disease.

Symptoms of the disease

How does ulcerative colitis manifest itself? Treatment of the disease is primarily determined by its type. Common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include rectal bleeding, abdominal pain and diarrhea. But besides these symptoms, there is a wide range of other manifestations of the disease. The variability of manifestations reflects differences in the degree of development of the disease, which are classified depending on the location and severity of inflammation:

• Ulcerative proctitis is limited to the rectum, and mild rectal bleeding may be the only symptom. More severe lesions are accompanied by sudden, uncontrollable diarrhea and tenesmus - a false urge to defecate due to muscle contractions of the intestine.
• Proctosigmoiditis is a combination of inflammation of the rectum and sigmoid colon; symptoms include sudden diarrhea, tenesmus and rectal bleeding. Some patients experience bloody stool and seizures.
• Left-sided colitis is localized in the rectum and spreads up the left side of the colon (sigmoid and descending), manifested by bloody diarrhea, sudden weight loss, and abdominal pain.
• Pancolitis, or universal colitis, affects the entire colon, and symptoms include abdominal cramps and pain, weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, fever, rectal bleeding, and diarrhea. This type of ulcerative colitis is much more difficult to treat.
• Fulminant colitis is a very rare and most severe form of the disease. Patients suffer from severe dehydration due to chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, and shock often occurs. This form of colitis is treated with intravenous medications; in some cases, surgical removal of the affected part of the colon may be necessary to prevent it from rupturing.

Most often, any of the listed forms of colitis remains localized in the same part of the intestine; less often, it happens that one turns into another, for example, ulcerative proctitis can develop into left-sided colitis.

Diagnostics

The primary diagnosis is made on the basis of complaints and symptoms - bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal pain. In addition, laboratory tests are carried out:

Scientific research also indicates that the presence of the protein calprotectin in stool may be considered a sign of the development of ulcerative colitis. Currently, new diagnostic diagnostic methods are used:

• video capsule endoscopy;
• CT scan;
• MRI enterography.

Therapy methods

Treatment of ulcerative colitis includes medical and surgical methods. Surgical intervention is indicated for severe forms of colitis and life-threatening complications. Ulcerative colitis is characterized by periods of exacerbation and remission, which can last from several months to several years. The main symptoms of the disease appear precisely during relapses. Relief most often occurs as a result of treatment, sometimes exacerbations can go away on their own, without outside intervention.

Drug therapy

Since ulcerative colitis cannot be completely cured with medications, their use has the following goals:

• overcoming relapses;
• maintaining remissions;
• minimizing side effects from treatment;
• improving quality of life;
• reducing the risk of cancer.

Medicines are divided into two large groups:

• anti-inflammatory drugs, in particular corticosteroids, glucocorticoids, 5-ASA compounds;
• immunomodulators, for example, Methotrexate, Cyclosporine, Azathioprine.

5-ASA preparations

5-aminosalicylic acid, or “Mesalamine,” is a drug with a chemical structure similar to aspirin, which has long been used to treat arthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis. However, unlike 5-ASA, aspirin is not effective against ulcerative colitis. The drug "Mesalamine" can be delivered directly to the site of inflammation using an enema, but taking the drug orally is more effective. Initially, doctors had a problem - when a drug is administered orally, most of the active substance is absorbed as it passes through the stomach and upper part of the small intestine before it reaches the colon. Therefore, to increase its effectiveness, 5-aminosalicylic acid has been modified into chemical forms that remain stable until it reaches the lower digestive system.

The result was the following drugs:

• “Sulfasalazine” is a stable structure of two molecules of 5-aminosalicylic acid, which has been successfully used for many years to induce remission in patients with mild and moderate colitis, reduces inflammation, abdominal pain and bleeding. Side effects include heartburn, nausea, anemia, and a temporary decrease in sperm count in men.
• "Mesalamine" is a modification of 5-ASA, consisting of an active substance coated with a protective thin shell of acrylic resin. The drug passes through the stomach and small intestine without damage, and upon reaching the ileum and colon, it dissolves, releasing 5-ASA. This drug is also known as “Asacol”; it is recommended to take it according to the following regimen - to eliminate exacerbations, 800 mg three times a day, and to maintain remission, 800 mg twice a day. If Mesalamine is ineffective, then corticosteroids are prescribed.
• "Olsalazine" or "Dipentum" is a modification of 5-ASA, in which the molecules of the active substance are combined with one inert molecule, which also makes it possible to reach the source of inflammation.

It is worth listing other derivatives of 5-aminosalicylic acid that are used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis:

• "Balsalazid" or "Kolazal".
• "Pentaza".
• enema and suppositories "Rovaza".
• "Lialda".

Corticosteroids

These compounds have been used for many years to treat patients with moderate to severe Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Unlike 5-aminosalicylic acid, corticosteroids do not require direct contact with inflamed intestinal tissue to be effective. These are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that are taken orally. Once they enter the bloodstream, they have a healing effect on the entire body. Treatment of ulcerative colitis with these drugs is very effective. For patients in critical condition, corticosteroids are administered intravenously (for example, Hydrocortisone). These compounds act more quickly than 5-ASA, and the patient's condition usually improves within a few days. If a patient has ulcerative colitis of the intestine, treatment with these drugs is used only to overcome relapses of the disease; they are not used to maintain remissions.

Side effects of corticosteroids

They depend on the dose and duration of use. Short courses of treatment with Prednisolone are well tolerated and have virtually no side effects. When taking high doses of corticosteroids for a long time, some complications, including serious ones, can develop. Among them:

• rounding the oval of the face;
• the appearance of acne;
• increase in the amount of body hair;
• diabetes;
• weight gain;
• hypertension;
• cataract;
• increased susceptibility to infections;
• depression, insomnia;
• muscle weakness;
• glaucoma;
• mood swings, irritability;
• osteoporosis, or thinning of the bones.

The most dangerous complications of taking corticosteroids include aseptic necrosis of the hip joints and a decrease in the ability of the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. For a disease such as ulcerative colitis, treatment with corticosteroids requires extreme caution and medical supervision. These drugs should only be used for the shortest possible period of time. Treatment usually begins with the prescription of Prednisolone in a dosage of up to 60 mg per day. Once the condition begins to improve, the amount of medication is gradually reduced by 5-10 mg per week and stopped. The use of corticosteroids must necessarily be accompanied by an increase in the calcium content in food and the use of drugs for this element. This is necessary to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Attention! Corticosteroids should be taken as prescribed and under the supervision of a physician. Self-medication with these drugs can lead to irreversible consequences.

Modern drugs from the group of corticosteroids include such drugs as Budesonide and Golimumab.

Immunomodulators

These are drugs that weaken the body's immune system and stop the activation of the immune system, leading to the development of ulcerative colitis. Typically, the immune system is activated when pathogens or infection enter the body. But in the case of colitis or Crohn's disease, the body's tissues and beneficial microorganisms become the target of immune cells. Immunomodulators reduce the intensity of tissue inflammation by reducing the population of immune cells and disrupting their protein production. In general, the benefits of using such drugs in the treatment of ulcerative colitis outweigh the risk of infection due to weakened immunity.

Examples of immunomodulators:

• "Azathioprine" and "Purenethol" reduce the activity of leukocytes. In high dosages, these two drugs are used to prevent organ transplant rejection and to treat leukemia. In low doses, they are successfully used as a therapy for diseases such as ulcerative colitis. Treatment, reviews of which can be read on clinic websites and medical forums, is effective in most cases.
• Methotrexate combines anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Used in the treatment of psoriasis and arthritis, effective against ulcerative colitis. A side effect is the development of liver cirrhosis, especially in patients who abuse alcohol, as well as pneumonia. In addition, the drug should not be used during pregnancy.
• Cyclosporine, or Sandimmune, is a powerful immunosuppressant that is effective for quickly controlling the development of severe colitis or delaying surgery. Side effects include increased blood pressure, seizures, and impaired renal function.
• Infliximab, or Remicade, is a protein that acts as an antibody to proteins produced by immune cells. Used to treat colitis and Crohn's disease if corticosteroids and immunomodulators are ineffective.

Surgery

Surgeries for ulcerative colitis usually involve removal of the colon and rectum. This procedure also eliminates the risk of developing cancer in these parts of the digestive system. Surgical treatment of ulcerative colitis is indicated for the following groups of patients:

• patients with fulminant colitis and toxic megacolon (enlargement of the colon wall);
• people with pancolitis and left-sided colitis who are on the verge of developing colon cancer;
• patients who have suffered many relapses over many years that have not responded to treatment.

Not long ago, an innovation was introduced that involves replacing the removed colon with a sheath made from intestines. It serves as a reservoir similar to the rectum and is emptied regularly through a small tube. This operation is called ileostomy.

Ulcerative colitis: treatment, diet

It is likely that a special diet may benefit patients with ulcerative colitis. However, there is no evidence to show that treatment for ulcerative colitis is more effective with dietary changes. Despite extensive research, no diet has been shown to slow the progression of the disease. In this regard, general recommendations can be given based on maintaining a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, cereals, lean meats, nuts, and fish. Patients should limit their intake of saturated fat. During an exacerbation, pureed soft food is recommended to minimize discomfort. Next you can read about traditional treatment for ulcerative colitis.

ethnoscience

The main methods used in the treatment of a disease such as ulcerative colitis are discussed above. Traditional treatment of the disease acts more as a supportive one. The arsenal of natural remedies includes honey, seeds, leaves and roots of plants, and vegetables. If you have ulcerative colitis, herbal treatment may have a supportive effect and reduce the intensity of inflammation. Below you can find some traditional medicine recipes used for colitis.

Mix dried chamomile, yarrow and sage flowers in equal parts. 3 tbsp. l. pour the mixture with a liter of hot boiled water and let it brew for 4-5 hours. Take according to Art. spoon 7 times a day for a month, then reduce the dose to 4 times a day. The drug is considered a good prevention of exacerbations of colitis.

Traditional healers advise treating intestinal ulcerative colitis with the use of potato juice. Grate the peeled tubers and squeeze out the juice. Drink half a glass half an hour before meals.

A decoction of strawberry or bird cherry leaves, linden tea, infusion of calendula flowers, herbal teas, parsley root - whole volumes can be written about natural remedies for the treatment of such an ailment as ulcerative colitis. Treatment, reviews of the results of which can be read in magazines and newspapers such as “Healthy Lifestyle”, cannot replace what was prescribed by a doctor. No matter how varied and praised folk recipes may be, they cannot be considered as the main treatment. Do not forget that treatment of ulcerative colitis with folk remedies is only a measure that can accompany the main methods of therapy. Also, before using any prescriptions, consult your doctor.

Is it possible to cure nyc completely? This question worries everyone who has been diagnosed with this. As medical practice shows, it is impossible to completely get rid of diseases that are chronic.

Collapse

Since nonspecific ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease, it is completely impossible to get rid of this disease. But, despite this, you should not refuse drug treatment. At the first symptoms, you must seek medical help. Even if it is not possible to completely get rid of the disease, the doctor, after performing diagnostic procedures, will select not only the necessary medications, but also certain treatment tactics. Only if all conditions are met is it possible to control the pathology.

It is impossible to completely cure chronic ulcerative colitis, but with proper treatment the pathology can be controlled

If you ignore nyc for a long time, this will undoubtedly lead to the development of serious complications, which in some cases can even lead to death.

When such a diagnosis is made, only correctly prescribed treatment and strict adherence to all rules will help stop attacks and prevent complications.

With the development of nonspecific ulcerative colitis, a person may experience completely different symptoms, which have varying degrees of severity and form. The main symptoms that indicate the development of this pathology are:

• intoxication of the body, which can manifest itself as fever, vomiting, dehydration;
• pain appears, which is accompanied by bleeding from the rectum;
• bloating;
• constipation followed by diarrhea;
• lack of appetite;
• the appearance of mucus impurities or;
• unreasonable weight loss;
• increased body temperature;
• the appearance of a rash on the body;
• joint pain
• frequent false urge to defecate.

Note! Many signs can appear even before clear symptoms of colitis appear; everything will completely depend on the severity of the pathology and the speed of its development.

Disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract: constipation followed by diarrhea

These are not all the symptoms that indicate the development of nonspecific ulcerative colitis, but at the first manifestation of at least one sign, you need to immediately consult a doctor, since even the slightest delay can lead to the development of quite serious complications.

Reasons for the development of pathology

The exact cause that could provoke the development of such a pathology as ulcer has not yet been identified, but there are still certain factors that negatively affect the general condition of the body and the immune response, and also, in turn, lead to the occurrence of pathology.

These factors include:

• genetic predisposition:
• various infections that penetrate the intestines;
• decreased immunity;
• long-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs;
• food allergies;
• stressful situations.

Regardless of what reason contributed to the onset of the disease, everyone who receives such a diagnosis asks the only question of how to cure ulcerative colitis. This pathology occurs in stages. First of all, the rectum is damaged, and then the membrane and mucous layer are subjected to this process.

During the course of the disease, it also has an impact depending on the individual characteristics of the person. For example, if a person is calm and balanced, then the disease is less active and the risk of complications is eliminated. Factors such as nervousness and systematic stress conditions have an adverse effect and the pathology begins to progress more rapidly, and various kinds of complications begin to develop.

In order to correctly make a diagnosis, first of all, the doctor conducts an external examination of the patient and only then additional laboratory and instrumental tests are prescribed.

Laboratory tests include:

• taking a general blood and urine test;

Instrumental studies include:

• sigmoidoscopy;
• colonoscopy;
• irrigoscopy.

It is necessary to take a blood and urine test

Thanks to all these examinations, the doctor can compare all the signs and find out the overall picture of the disease. Only in this case does it become possible to make a truly correct diagnosis and find out the cause of the disease. And since treatment depends on an accurate diagnosis, only in this case can you choose truly correct and comprehensive therapy.

Anyone who has been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis has wondered whether it can be cured forever. As medical practice shows, it is impossible to get rid of such a disease, especially since it is a chronic pathology, irreversibly, but this does not mean at all that the treatment will not bring any results.

In order to take the first step towards recovery, you need to see a doctor and undergo all the necessary tests. After this, the doctor, depending on each individual situation, will prescribe the appropriate treatment. The following treatment methods are mainly used to treat this pathology:

• diet, which is rightfully considered the basis of this type of treatment;
• drug treatment;
• surgical intervention.

I would like to draw attention to the fact that such a pathology as ulcerative colitis is considered an autoimmune disease and therefore its treatment must be continuous for quite a long time.

Treatment must be systematic and constant

The goal of treatment with medications is to prolong the period of remission, as well as prevent the development of new exacerbations. But, unfortunately, with this method of treatment it is impossible to talk about a complete recovery, since the pathology is considered incurable.

As for proper nutrition and compliance during the development of such a pathology, this will primarily help prolong the period of remission. If the patient experiences a period of exacerbation, then it is recommended to completely avoid eating for a while. During this period, it is even forbidden to drink water. In order to support the body during a period of lack of nutrition, the patient is prescribed IVs, which are able to provide the body with all nutrients and fluids.

If the patient is diagnosed with a mild or moderate stage of the disease, then a certain diet is recommended, in which the following foods are allowed:

• lean meat and fish;
• porridge;
• pasta;
• biscuits;
• White bread;
• vegetables;
• mushrooms;
• eggs and dishes prepared from them;
• berries and fruits, which can be consumed both raw and prepared into compotes;
• greenery.

It is necessary to consume foods that have a positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract

Despite the fact that the list of permitted foods is quite long, there is also the fact that eating food with such a disease is strictly prohibited. These products include:

• fatty, salty, smoked, spicy dishes;
• cabbage, peppers, beets and onions;
• carbonated drinks;
• alcohol.

Among other things, it is recommended to completely abandon all bad habits. Also, when preparing a diet, it is best to seek help from your doctor, who can do this professionally and taking into account all the characteristics of the patient’s body.

As for surgical intervention, for it to be carried out there must be quite serious indications, which include:

• various intestinal complications;
• toxic dilatation;
• formation of a malignant tumor;
• abscess;
• intestinal obstruction;
• lack of visible results during drug treatment;
• presence of intestinal fistulas;
• formation of polyps;
• dysplasia of the colon mucosa.

Formation of polyps in the intestines

If the patient has at least one of the complications listed above, then treatment for surgery is taken. Surgical intervention is carried out in the following ways:

• palliative surgery is performed;
• A radical operation is performed, the essence of which is the complete removal of the large intestine.

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis is rightfully considered an incurable disease. But if you follow all the doctor’s recommendations and follow a diet, you can not only stop its spread, but also prevent exacerbation.

If drug treatment does not lead to the desired results and the ulcer worsens even more, then the answer to the question of what to do in this case is to perform an operation.

Regardless of the chosen method of combating pathology, it is recommended to adhere to a certain diet throughout life, as well as systematically conduct preventive studies. The most important thing in this matter is complete trust between the doctor and the patient.

Conclusion

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis is considered a rather severe pathology, treatment of which should begin immediately and be monitored by the attending physician. Only in this case can you, although not get rid of this disease, prevent its further spread and development of complications. It is also worth considering the fact that in no case should you hesitate and self-medicate when the first symptoms appear. The pathology progresses quite quickly and leads to the fact that over time it is difficult to treat.

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis is a rare pathology and not fully understood. Some consider genetic predisposition as the main cause, others consider the influence of external factors, including alcohol, smoking, stress and poor diet. We will not dwell for long on the causes of the disease - this publication is devoted to such an issue as the treatment of ulcerative colitis with medications and folk remedies.

What is ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease of the large intestine, which is the part of the digestive system where water is removed from undigested food, leaving digestive waste behind. The large intestine ends with a rectum, which, in turn, passes into the anus. In patients with ulcerative colitis, the lining of the intestines becomes inflamed, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. Next, we will talk about the features of the disease nonspecific ulcerative colitis, the symptoms, treatment of which will be discussed in detail.

Ulcerative colitis is often associated with an inflammatory disease such as Crohn's disease. Together, these two diseases can be combined under the term inflammatory bowel disease. Ulcerative colitis, along with Crohn's disease, are chronic diseases that can last for years or decades. Men and women suffer equally. The development of pathology most often begins in adolescence or early adulthood, but there are also cases of this disease in young children.

Very often, residents of Europe and America, as well as people of Jewish origin, are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. The population of Asian countries and representatives of the Negroid race are more fortunate in this regard - the pathology is extremely rare among them. For unknown reasons, an increased incidence of this disease has recently been observed in developing countries. There is also a high likelihood of developing colitis in those whose relatives are familiar with this diagnosis.

What are the causes of ulcerative colitis

No reliable factors for the development of colitis have been identified, and at present there is no convincing evidence that it is an infectious disease. Most experts are inclined to believe that ulcerative colitis occurs due to dysfunction of the immune system in the intestines. In this case, there is an abnormal activation of immune cells and proteins, the activity of which leads to inflammation. The predisposition to abnormal immune activation is genetically inherited. Scientists have discovered about 30 genes that can increase the likelihood of developing colitis. Read more about ulcerative colitis of the intestine, symptoms, treatment of the disease.

Symptoms of the disease

How does ulcerative colitis manifest itself? Treatment of the disease is primarily determined by its type. Common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include rectal bleeding, abdominal pain and diarrhea. But besides these symptoms, there is a wide range of other manifestations of the disease. The variability of manifestations reflects differences in the degree of development of the disease, which are classified depending on the location and severity of inflammation:

• Ulcerative proctitis is limited to the rectum, and mild rectal bleeding may be the only symptom. More severe lesions are accompanied by sudden, uncontrollable diarrhea and tenesmus - a false urge to defecate due to muscle contractions of the intestine.
• Proctosigmoiditis is a combination of inflammation of the rectum and sigmoid colon; symptoms include sudden diarrhea, tenesmus and rectal bleeding. Some patients experience bloody stool and seizures.
• Left-sided colitis is localized in the rectum and spreads up the left side of the colon (sigmoid and descending), manifested by bloody diarrhea, sudden weight loss, and abdominal pain.
• Pancolitis, or universal colitis, affects the entire colon, and symptoms include abdominal cramps and pain, weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, fever, rectal bleeding, and diarrhea. This type of ulcerative colitis is much more difficult to treat.
• Fulminant colitis is a very rare and most severe form of the disease. Patients suffer from severe dehydration due to chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, and shock often occurs. This form of colitis is treated with intravenous medications; in some cases, surgical removal of the affected part of the colon may be necessary to prevent it from rupturing.

Most often, any of the listed forms of colitis remains localized in the same part of the intestine; less often, it happens that one turns into another, for example, ulcerative proctitis can develop into left-sided colitis.

Diagnostics

The primary diagnosis is made on the basis of complaints and symptoms - bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal pain. In addition, laboratory tests are carried out:

Scientific research also indicates that the presence of the protein calprotectin in stool may be considered a sign of the development of ulcerative colitis. Currently, new diagnostic diagnostic methods are used:

• video capsule endoscopy;
• CT scan;
• MRI enterography.

Therapy methods

Treatment of ulcerative colitis includes medical and surgical methods. Surgical intervention is indicated for severe forms of colitis and life-threatening complications. Ulcerative colitis is characterized by periods of exacerbation and remission, which can last from several months to several years. The main symptoms of the disease appear precisely during relapses. Relief most often occurs as a result of treatment, sometimes exacerbations can go away on their own, without outside intervention.

Drug therapy

Since ulcerative colitis cannot be completely cured with medications, their use has the following goals:

• overcoming relapses;
• maintaining remissions;
• minimizing side effects from treatment;
• improving quality of life;
• reducing the risk of cancer.

Medicines are divided into two large groups:

• anti-inflammatory drugs, in particular corticosteroids, glucocorticoids, 5-ASA compounds;
• immunomodulators, for example, Methotrexate, Cyclosporine, Azathioprine.

5-ASA preparations

5-aminosalicylic acid, or “Mesalamine,” is a drug with a chemical structure similar to aspirin, which has long been used to treat arthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis. However, unlike 5-ASA, aspirin is not effective against ulcerative colitis. The drug "Mesalamine" can be delivered directly to the site of inflammation using an enema, but taking the drug orally is more effective. Initially, doctors had a problem - when a drug is administered orally, most of the active substance is absorbed as it passes through the stomach and upper part of the small intestine before it reaches the colon. Therefore, to increase its effectiveness, 5-aminosalicylic acid has been modified into chemical forms that remain stable until it reaches the lower digestive system.

The result was the following drugs:

• “Sulfasalazine” is a stable structure of two molecules of 5-aminosalicylic acid, which has been successfully used for many years to induce remission in patients with mild and moderate colitis, reduces inflammation, abdominal pain and bleeding. Side effects include heartburn, nausea, anemia, and a temporary decrease in sperm count in men.
• "Mesalamine" is a modification of 5-ASA, consisting of an active substance coated with a protective thin shell of acrylic resin. The drug passes through the stomach and small intestine without damage, and upon reaching the ileum and colon, it dissolves, releasing 5-ASA. This drug is also known as “Asacol”; it is recommended to take it according to the following regimen - to eliminate exacerbations, 800 mg three times a day, and to maintain remission, 800 mg twice a day. If Mesalamine is ineffective, then corticosteroids are prescribed.
• "Olsalazine" or "Dipentum" is a modification of 5-ASA, in which the molecules of the active substance are combined with one inert molecule, which also makes it possible to reach the source of inflammation.

It is worth listing other derivatives of 5-aminosalicylic acid that are used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis:

• "Balsalazid" or "Kolazal".
• "Pentaza".
• enema and suppositories "Rovaza".
• "Lialda".

Corticosteroids

These compounds have been used for many years to treat patients with moderate to severe Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Unlike 5-aminosalicylic acid, corticosteroids do not require direct contact with inflamed intestinal tissue to be effective. These are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that are taken orally. Once they enter the bloodstream, they have a healing effect on the entire body. Treatment of ulcerative colitis with these drugs is very effective. For patients in critical condition, corticosteroids are administered intravenously (for example, Hydrocortisone). These compounds act more quickly than 5-ASA, and the patient's condition usually improves within a few days. If a patient has ulcerative colitis of the intestine, treatment with these drugs is used only to overcome relapses of the disease; they are not used to maintain remissions.

Side effects of corticosteroids

They depend on the dose and duration of use. Short courses of treatment with Prednisolone are well tolerated and have virtually no side effects. When taking high doses of corticosteroids for a long time, some complications, including serious ones, can develop. Among them:

• rounding the oval of the face;
• the appearance of acne;
• increase in the amount of body hair;
• diabetes;
• weight gain;
• hypertension;
• cataract;
• increased susceptibility to infections;
• depression, insomnia;
• muscle weakness;
• glaucoma;
• mood swings, irritability;
• osteoporosis, or thinning of the bones.

The most dangerous complications of taking corticosteroids include aseptic necrosis of the hip joints and a decrease in the ability of the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. For a disease such as ulcerative colitis, treatment with corticosteroids requires extreme caution and medical supervision. These drugs should only be used for the shortest possible period of time. Treatment usually begins with the prescription of Prednisolone in a dosage of up to 60 mg per day. Once the condition begins to improve, the amount of medication is gradually reduced by 5-10 mg per week and stopped. The use of corticosteroids must necessarily be accompanied by an increase in the calcium content in food and the use of drugs for this element. This is necessary to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Attention! Corticosteroids should be taken as prescribed and under the supervision of a physician. Self-medication with these drugs can lead to irreversible consequences.

Modern drugs from the group of corticosteroids include such drugs as Budesonide and Golimumab.

Immunomodulators

These are drugs that weaken the body's immune system and stop the activation of the immune system, leading to the development of ulcerative colitis. Typically, the immune system is activated when pathogens or infection enter the body. But in the case of colitis or Crohn's disease, the body's tissues and beneficial microorganisms become the target of immune cells. Immunomodulators reduce the intensity of tissue inflammation by reducing the population of immune cells and disrupting their protein production. In general, the benefits of using such drugs in the treatment of ulcerative colitis outweigh the risk of infection due to weakened immunity.

Examples of immunomodulators:

• "Azathioprine" and "Purenethol" reduce the activity of leukocytes. In high dosages, these two drugs are used to prevent organ transplant rejection and to treat leukemia. In low doses, they are successfully used as a therapy for diseases such as ulcerative colitis. Treatment, reviews of which can be read on clinic websites and medical forums, is effective in most cases.
• Methotrexate combines anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Used in the treatment of psoriasis and arthritis, effective against ulcerative colitis. A side effect is the development of liver cirrhosis, especially in patients who abuse alcohol, as well as pneumonia. In addition, the drug should not be used during pregnancy.
• Cyclosporine, or Sandimmune, is a powerful immunosuppressant that is effective for quickly controlling the development of severe colitis or delaying surgery. Side effects include increased blood pressure, seizures, and impaired renal function.
• Infliximab, or Remicade, is a protein that acts as an antibody to proteins produced by immune cells. Used to treat colitis and Crohn's disease if corticosteroids and immunomodulators are ineffective.

Surgery

Surgeries for ulcerative colitis usually involve removal of the colon and rectum. This procedure also eliminates the risk of developing cancer in these parts of the digestive system. Surgical treatment of ulcerative colitis is indicated for the following groups of patients:

• patients with fulminant colitis and toxic megacolon (enlargement of the colon wall);
• people with pancolitis and left-sided colitis who are on the verge of developing colon cancer;
• patients who have suffered many relapses over many years that have not responded to treatment.

Not long ago, an innovation was introduced that involves replacing the removed colon with a sheath made from intestines. It serves as a reservoir similar to the rectum and is emptied regularly through a small tube. This operation is called ileostomy.

Ulcerative colitis: treatment, diet

It is likely that a special diet may benefit patients with ulcerative colitis. However, there is no evidence to show that treatment for ulcerative colitis is more effective with dietary changes. Despite extensive research, no diet has been shown to slow the progression of the disease. In this regard, general recommendations can be given based on maintaining a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, cereals, lean meats, nuts, and fish. Patients should limit their intake of saturated fat. During an exacerbation, pureed soft food is recommended to minimize discomfort. Next you can read about traditional treatment for ulcerative colitis.

ethnoscience

The main methods used in the treatment of a disease such as ulcerative colitis are discussed above. Traditional treatment of the disease acts more as a supportive one. The arsenal of natural remedies includes honey, seeds, leaves and roots of plants, and vegetables. If you have ulcerative colitis, herbal treatment may have a supportive effect and reduce the intensity of inflammation. Below you can find some traditional medicine recipes used for colitis.

Mix dried chamomile, yarrow and sage flowers in equal parts. 3 tbsp. l. pour the mixture with a liter of hot boiled water and let it brew for 4-5 hours. Take according to Art. spoon 7 times a day for a month, then reduce the dose to 4 times a day. The drug is considered a good prevention of exacerbations of colitis.

Traditional healers advise treating intestinal ulcerative colitis with the use of potato juice. Grate the peeled tubers and squeeze out the juice. Drink half a glass half an hour before meals.

A decoction of strawberry or bird cherry leaves, linden tea, infusion of calendula flowers, herbal teas, parsley root - whole volumes can be written about natural remedies for the treatment of such an ailment as ulcerative colitis. Treatment, reviews of the results of which can be read in magazines and newspapers such as “Healthy Lifestyle”, cannot replace what was prescribed by a doctor. No matter how varied and praised folk recipes may be, they cannot be considered as the main treatment. Do not forget that treatment of ulcerative colitis with folk remedies is only a measure that can accompany the main methods of therapy. Also, before using any prescriptions, consult your doctor.

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis is one of the most mysterious gastroenterological diseases. The exact reasons for its development have not yet been determined, but effective treatment methods that can maximize the quality of life of a chronic patient have already been developed.

With nonspecific ulcerative colitis, the mucous membrane of the large intestine suffers. It becomes inflamed, causing the patient severe pain. Unlike viral or infectious diseases, when the pathogen enters the body from the outside, UC is an autoimmune pathology. It originates inside the body, with a certain failure of the immune system, the exact nature of which has not yet been determined. Accordingly, it is not possible to develop preventive measures that 100% guarantee protection against UC. There are only theories that allow us to talk about risk factors:

1. Genetic. Statistics have revealed that the disease has a family predisposition.
2. Infectious. Some experts suggest that UC occurs as a result of the body's reaction to the action of certain bacteria, which under normal conditions are non-pathogenic (safe). What exactly contributes to the modification of bacteria into pathogenic ones is not yet clear.
3. Immune. According to this theory, with UC there is an allergic reaction to certain components in food products. During this reaction, the mucous membrane produces a special antigen that comes into “confrontation” with the natural intestinal microflora.
4. Emotional. A less common theory is that UC develops against the background of prolonged deep stress.

The diagnosis of “nonspecific ulcerative colitis” is rapidly becoming younger. More than 70% of cases, according to statistics from the last twenty years, are teenagers and people under 30 years of age. Pensioners suffer from ulcerative colitis much less frequently. According to the latest statistics, the incidence is 1 case in approximately 14 thousand people.

Is it possible to be cured for good?

This question worries many who hear their diagnosis for the first time. Unfortunately, no doctor who calls himself a professional can guarantee a cure. The fact is that UC is a chronic disease, which means that the disease can only be “healed”, but not completely eliminated. Colitis has a cyclical course, that is, relapses (periods of exacerbation) alternate with months of stagnation, when the disease hardly manifests itself. The goal of therapy for UC is to delay the onset of relapse as much as possible, and when it occurs, to reduce the severity of symptoms.

Some patients, upon learning their diagnosis, panic, believing that they will have to spend the rest of their lives on a strict diet. Meanwhile, the emotional state of the patient is an important factor determining the success of therapy. Therefore, under no circumstances should you give up. Strict dietary restrictions are necessary only during the acute phase of the disease; during periods of remission, the diet is much gentler.

Treatment options

The search for effective methods of treating UC has been going on since the 80s of the last century. Currently, the best results have been achieved with an integrated approach to therapy, combining different treatment methods:

• taking medications;
• diet;
• psycho-emotional correction.

Surgical treatment of UC is also practiced, but in recent years there has been a tendency to replace surgical therapy with conservative therapy.

The treatment plan is developed based on the individual characteristics of the body (gender, age, presence of other chronic ailments, etc.). General treatment for ulcerative colitis has long proven ineffective. Therefore, before prescribing certain medications or surgery, the patient must undergo a long examination.

If a complete cure is not possible, therapy for ulcerative colitis sets itself the following tasks:

• reduction of disease symptoms;
• relapse prevention;
• improving quality of life.

Video - Nonspecific ulcerative colitis: symptoms and treatment

Drug therapy for UC

The main group of drugs prescribed for the treatment of ulcerative colitis are anti-inflammatory drugs. Their goal is to stop the inflammatory process in the mucous membranes of the large intestine.

Analysis of the effectiveness of a particular anti-inflammatory drug is carried out within a week from the moment of administration. If stabilization of the patient's condition is not observed, the drug is replaced with another.

Reducing mucosal inflammation is the main, but not the only task that a UC treatment plan should solve. In addition to anti-inflammatory drugs, your doctor may prescribe medications from the following groups:

Depending on the form of the disease and individual sensitivity to individual drugs, the gastroenterologist can prescribe all of the above-described drugs, as well as drugs from groups 1-2.

When is surgery needed?

Currently, surgical intervention is prescribed in 10-15% of all cases of UC. At the beginning of the 2000s, this figure was at least twice as high. Surgery is recommended in extreme cases when conservative treatment has failed and the patient's condition is deteriorating. Against the background of UC, a malignant intestinal tumor (colorectal cancer) can develop. Then the operation is necessary to save the patient’s life, and not to improve its quality.

The following types of surgical intervention are currently practiced:

The choice of one or another surgical intervention technique, as in the case of conservative treatment, depends on the patient’s condition and the presence of concomitant diseases.

Features of the diet for UC

Nutrition for ulcerative colitis requires strict control of the balance of nutrients in the foods consumed. Exceeding the norm of carbohydrates or fats during remission can lead to relapse. Therefore, visits to a nutritionist, who will adjust the menu during different cycles of the disease, are mandatory.

In case of UC, it is recommended to completely remove foods containing coarse fiber or milk protein from the diet. Flour increases intestinal peristalsis, which in case of inflammation of the mucous membranes is fraught with sharp, paroxysmal pain. As for the ban on dairy products, it is due to the body’s increased sensitivity to the protein contained in them. If in healthy people the allergy to this protein is suppressed by the immune system, then in UC the body cannot cope with this task. Also prohibited are sweets with a high lactose content (chocolate, candies, various syrups, etc.). Consumption of vegetables and fruits during an exacerbation should be kept to a minimum. Baked apples and pears are allowed only in stable remission; it is better to exclude citrus fruits altogether.

The basis of the diet of a patient with nonspecific colitis during the acute phase should be porridge and broth. Meat and fish are allowed only boiled or steamed, without crust. As a side dish, in addition to porridge, soft-consistency mashed potatoes are recommended. Eggs are also allowed, but only in the form of a steam omelet.

The main principle of forming a menu during the period of remission is to assess the body’s reaction to the addition of a particular product. Diet correction is carried out only under the supervision of a gastroenterologist.

A properly selected treatment regimen for ulcerative colitis and adherence to a diet ensure stable, long-term remission, in which dietary restrictions are kept to a minimum. The example of thousands of patients has shown that with nonspecific ulcerative colitis you can lead a bright, fulfilling life, the quality of which depends primarily on the desire to comply with the treatment plan.