The best way to treat ulcerative colitis. Effective folk remedies in the treatment of ulcerative colitis

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis is one of the most mysterious gastroenterological diseases. Exact reasons its development has not yet been determined, but effective methods of treatment that 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, giving the patient strong pain. Unlike viral or infectious diseases, when the pathogen enters the body from the outside, NUC 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, 100% guaranteed protection against NUC. There are only theories that allow us to talk about risk factors:

1. Genetic. Statistics revealed that the disease is characterized by 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 pathogens is not yet clear.
3. Immune. According to this theory, with UC there is allergic reaction on certain components in the composition food products. During this reaction, the mucosa produces a special antigen that enters into a "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 getting younger. More than 70% of cases, according to statistics of the last twenty years, are teenagers and people under 30 years old. Senior citizens suffer from ulcerative colitis much less frequently. According to the latest statistics, the incidence is 1 case in about 14 thousand people.

Is it possible to heal permanently?

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 NUC is a chronic disease, which means that the disease can only be “healed”, but not completely eliminated. Colitis is characterized by a cyclic course, that is, relapses (periods of exacerbation) alternate with months of stagnation, when the disease almost does not manifest itself. The goal of therapy for NUC is to delay the onset of relapse as much as possible, and when it occurs, to reduce the severity of symptoms.

Some patients, having learned their diagnosis, panic, believing that the rest of their lives will have to be spent on strict diet. Meanwhile emotional condition patient is an important factor determining the success of therapy. Therefore, you should never give up. Strict dietary restrictions are necessary only in the acute phase of the disease; during periods of remission, the diet is much softer.

Ways of treatment

Search effective methods NUC treatments have been conducted since the 80s of the last century. Currently best results was achieved with an integrated approach to therapy, combining different ways of treatment:

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

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

The treatment plan is developed based on individual features organism (gender, age, the presence of other chronic ailments, etc.). Therapy of NUC according to the general scheme has long proved to be ineffective. Therefore, before prescribing certain drugs or surgical intervention the patient must undergo a long examination.

If it is impossible complete cure, therapy of nonspecific ulcerative colitis sets itself the following tasks:

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

Video - Nonspecific ulcerative colitis: symptoms and treatment

Drug therapy for NUC

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.

1. Glucocorticoids(Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone, Methylprednisolone). A group of drugs that was first used to reduce inflammation of the rectum. The greatest effectiveness of glucocorticoids is observed in the treatment of left-sided forms of UC. Previously, these medicines were used in the form of enemas, in recent years, a special medicinal product, rectal foam, has become widespread. Therapy with glucocorticoids shows good results in moderate and severe forms of UC. The duration of the course is often no more than 10 days, then the question of the advisability of replacing glucocorticoids with drugs of another group is considered.

   

2. Sulfasalazine. This drug originally developed to fight bacterial infections. It showed high efficiency in the treatment of mild and moderate forms of inflammation of the rectal mucosa. It is prescribed in the form of enemas or suppositories. The main disadvantage of this drug in the treatment of UC is the abundance of side effects, even with a small overdose. Patients develop diarrhea, nausea, weakness, severe abdominal pain. Therefore, a verified dosage is the main guarantee successful treatment sulfasalazine.
3. group medicines 5-ACK(aminosalicylic acid) - Mesacol, Mezavant, Kansalazin, Salofalk, etc. The effectiveness of NUC therapy with these drugs is similar to sulfasalazine, but, unlike the latter, 5-ASA is less toxic to the body. They are used as the main medicine for mild and moderate forms of colitis. May be prescribed in addition to drugs of the glucocorticoid group.



An analysis of the effectiveness of a particular anti-inflammatory agent 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 one.

Reducing inflammation of the mucosa is the main, but not the only task that the UC treatment plan should solve. In addition to anti-inflammatory drugs, the attending physician may prescribe medications from the following groups:






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

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. The operation is recommended extreme cases when conservative treatment has failed and the patient's condition worsens. Against the background of UC, a malignant tumor of the intestine (colorectal cancer) can develop. Then the operation is necessary already to save the patient's life, and not to improve its quality.

The following types of surgery are currently practiced:






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

Features of the diet for NUC

Nutrition for ulcerative colitis involves strict control of the balance of nutrients in consumed foods. 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 illnesses are required.



With NUC, it is recommended to completely eliminate foods containing coarse fiber or milk protein. Flour increases intestinal peristalsis, which, with inflammation of the mucous membranes, is fraught with a sharp paroxysmal pain. As for the ban on dairy products, it is due to the increased sensitivity of the body to the protein contained in them. If healthy people If an allergy to this protein is suppressed by the immune system, then with UC, the body cannot cope with this task. Also under the ban sweets with high content lactose (chocolate, sweets, various syrups, etc.). The consumption of vegetables and fruits during the period of exacerbation should be minimized. Baked apples and pears are allowed only with 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 cereals and broths. Meat and fish are allowed only boiled or steamed, without a crust. From side dishes, in addition to cereals, it is recommended mashed potatoes soft texture. Eggs are also allowed, but only in the form of a steam omelette.



The main principle of the formation of the 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 NUC and dietary compliance provide a stable, long-term remission, in which dietary restrictions are minimized. The example of thousands of patients has shown that with ulcerative colitis it is possible to manage a bright, full life, the quality of which depends primarily on the desire to comply with the treatment plan.

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis (NUC) is a chronic inflammatory disease intestines of an unknown nature, affecting the mucous membrane of the colon with ulcerative-destructive changes, having a progressive course, with the development of local and systemic complications.

In most cases, the disease develops gradually. The process begins with damage to the rectal mucosa - ulcerative proctitis. Subsequently, ulcerative-destructive changes spread to the entire large intestine.

The first symptom is diarrhea. The frequency of stool can be from 3 to 10 times a day or more. The characteristic clinical signs of NUC are:

• cramping pains in the lower abdomen;
• tenesmus (false urge to go to the toilet);
• flatulence;
• imperative, developing in a few seconds, the urge to defecate;
• night calls.

Even at the very beginning of the disease, blood, mucus and pus can be observed in the stool.

With significant lesions of the intestinal mucosa, signs of intoxication appear:

• nausea, vomiting;
• increase in body temperature;
• weight loss;

With a long course of the disease, systemic complications begin to develop, which are described below. The most severe course is fulminant colitis, which is manifested by abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fever up to 40 ° C, signs of peritonitis and severe intoxication. The reason for its development is transmural (through all layers of the intestine) ulceration of the colon with the development of peritonitis and acute toxic dilatation (expansion) of the intestine. This condition requires urgent medical care – surgical operation with removal of the large intestine.

Causes

The reasons for the development of NUC are not fully understood. Scientists believe the main cause of the autoimmune process.

This means that the patient's immunity perceives the cells of the large intestine as foreign, and tries to destroy them.

Diagnosis of nonspecific ulcerative colitis

Examination for NUC includes several mandatory methods, which include:

• carrying out a coprogram - blood, mucus and pus are detected in the feces;
• microscopy of warm feces is performed to exclude amoebiasis and bacteriological research to exclude microbial flora;
• colonoscopy with multiple biopsy and histological evaluation is the only verifying examination method that allows to establish the diagnosis with high accuracy;
• if it is impossible to perform a colonoscopy, an irrigoscopy is performed;
• with complexity differential diagnosis with Crohn's disease, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies are determined, which are present in 70% of patients with UC, and in 20% of cases with Crohn's disease.
• A complete blood count for NUC shows an increase in ESR and leukocytosis, which help the attending physician to determine the severity and select adequate treatment.

Complications

With NUC, especially with a long course, as well as in the absence of treatment, complications often develop. To local complications that affect only gastrointestinal tract, relate:

1. Perforation - a deep ulcerative defect destroys all layers of the intestine, resulting in a hole through which the intestinal contents exit into abdominal cavity, causing an even more dangerous complication - fecal peritonitis.
2. Bleeding - ulcers of the large intestine also destroy the walls of blood vessels.
3. Strictures - after the healing of defects in the mucous and muscular membranes of the intestine, are formed scar tissue that narrow the intestinal lumen.
4. Pseudopolyposis - areas of the preserved intestinal epithelium look against the background of the surrounding ulcerative-erosive changes, like raised islets, similar to polyps.
5. Secondary intestinal infection.
6. The disappearance of the mucous membrane, both complete and partial.
7. Toxic expansion of the large intestine - toxic megacolon.
8. Defeats all around anus- cracks, fistulas, paraproctitis, skin irritation.

With damage to the intestinal mucosa, there is a deterioration in the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream.

With NUC, this violation is aggravated by constant bouts of diarrhea, as well as entry into the bloodstream toxic substances(autoimmune complexes, toxins of the decay products and vital activity of bacteria), which leads to common complications:

1. Hypocorticism is a syndrome caused by inhibition of the adrenal glands, which is associated with an autoimmune lesion of their cortex.
2. Sepsis - the entry of bacteria into the bloodstream further affects many systems of the body.
3. Arthritis - inflammation of the joints in NUC develops due to newly formed vessels in its bag, in which antibodies settle, causing inflammation.
4. Skin lesions - it becomes swarthy due to hypocorticism, erosion and pyoderma appear.
5. Eye damage - conjunctivitis and iridocyclitis are most often observed;
6. Kidney damage - the development of pyelonephritis is possible, due to the addition of a secondary infection, glomerulonephritis, due to the circulation of immune complexes in the bloodstream, as well as amyloidosis.
7. Phlebitis - immune complexes cause inflammation inner surface veins, especially of the extremities.

Treatment

With NUC, treatment is based on the use of special medications, strict adherence to diet and bed rest.

Medications

With a mild form of the disease, sulfasalazine is used orally, 2-4 g or mesalazine (mesalok, salofalk) 2-4 g per day with gradual decline doses up to maintenance.

With proctitis, you can limit yourself to local treatment using mesalazine - rectal suppositories 500 mg 2 times a day for 4-6 weeks or mesalazine enema 1-4 g per day for 4-6 weeks.

As an alternative, glucocorticosteroids are used: hydrocortisone 125 mg or prednisolone 20 mg in an enema 2 times a day from 7 days to 2-3 months. Carry out if necessary antibiotic therapy metronidazole 500 mg 3 times a day.

In case of moderate course of UC, sulfasalazine is used orally, 2-6 g, and in case of intolerance, mesalazine (mesacol, salofalk) 3 g per day for a long time for many years. It is possible to use microclysters with hydrocortisone (125 mg) or prednisolone (20 mg) twice a day for 7 days or more. Effective budenofalk (budesonide) at 3 mg per day is one of the strongest glucocorticosteroids, which, when taken orally, suppresses the inflammatory process in the colon.

In a severe form of the disease, the patient is transferred to parenteral nutrition - nutrients injected into a vein. Intravenous injections of donor blood and plasma, electrolytes are also carried out. To suppress the inflammatory process, prednisolone is used at a dose of 40-60 mg per day, with a gradual dose reduction.

Alternative regimens may be azathioprine 1.5-2.5 mg/kg per day by mouth or mercaptopurine 0.75-1.5 g/kg per day by mouth. The drug is also administered intravenously by drop for at least two hours at a single dose of 5 mg/kg. Subsequent injections of the drug after 2 weeks and 6 weeks at the same dose, and then, if there is an effect, the administration is repeated every 8 weeks.

At severe course UC required daily holding laboratory studies, a survey radiograph of the abdomen for the purpose of early diagnosis of complications. A few days later, the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory therapy is evaluated. If there is an ineffectiveness of the treatment and severe intestinal complications develop, an surgical treatment.

Diet

Diet is the basis for the treatment of UC. It must be observed even before setting clinical diagnosis, and adhere for a lifetime after. According to the old system of dietary tables according to Pevzner, this diet is called table number 4. With her, food is carried out in small portions 6 times a day.

Featured Products:

• pureed, finely ground cereals and soups based on rice, semolina;
• jelly from astringent berries and fruits: bird cherry, quince, blueberries, dogwood;
• meat low-fat varieties: chicken breast, turkey fillet, veal, rolled to puree in a meat grinder or blender, and steamed or boiled;
• boiled or steamed low-fat fish - hake, pike perch, perch, carp, cod, bream, pike, pollock (cutlets or soufflé can be prepared from their meat);
• bread is better to use a little dried - yesterday;
• during an exacerbation, the use of pasta, potatoes is not recommended (allowed during remissions);

You should refuse, preferably for life, the following foods:

• milk and most fermented milk products - with NUC causes a significant increase in diarrhea;
• legumes - peas, soybeans and beans cause fermentation in the intestines, which leads to increased flatulence and diarrhea;
• pickled, pickled and salted foods - you should forget about sauerkraut, salted herring and pickled cucumbers;
• barley, barley, buckwheat and oatmeal;
• kvass, fruit drink, wine, and especially beer;
• strong coffee;
• seeds, nuts and dried fruits;
• jam and honey.

Treatment of diarrhea in UC

To eliminate diarrhea, use loperamide 4 mg (2 tablets) orally, then 2 mg after each episode of diarrhea, but not more than 12 mg per day (6 tablets).

Folk remedies

Fight this dangerous and serious illness leads people not only to doctors, but also to a variety of healers and folk methods of treatment. No matter how some doctors opposed this, folk recipes containing natural substances, really give a tangible effect.

1. For better accessibility of the drug to the site of the disease, microclysters with infusions of various herbs are used. Before using a therapeutic enema, it is necessary to conduct a cleansing, in the following way: brew 1 liter of boiling water 3 tablespoons of chamomile or calendula. These herbs have a pronounced antiseptic effect, thereby eliminating bacterial infection intestines. Cooled down to body temperature, the infusion is injected into the rectum in a volume of 0.4-0.5 liters once. After some time, the contents of the intestine will come out with the infusion, and after that you can use a therapeutic enema with 40 ml of sea buckthorn or rosehip oil.
2. Nice background effect drug treatment possess various infusions and decoctions used internally. One of the best is an infusion of three components: sage, chamomile and pomegranate peel. The first two components are freely sold at the pharmacy, and the third can be made by yourself. To prepare, take 1 teaspoon of each ingredient, and brew 200 ml of boiling water. I drink infusion 6 times a day for a tablespoon for 3 months. This infusion has analgesic (sage), antibacterial (chamomile) and antidiarrheal (pomegranate) properties.

Disease prognosis

The prognosis for this rare and dangerous disease relatively favorable. The duration and quality of life directly depends on the patient himself - only an early appeal to the doctor for help, the implementation of all recommendations, strict adherence to the diet and taking medications gives a high chance of developing remission.

With an acute onset of the disease, the prognosis is unfavorable - mortality is 50-70%. IN young age the prognosis is much worse than in the elderly. Mortality from complications of UC is high in the first year of the disease and after 10-15 years, due to the development colorectal cancer. In most cases, NUC leads to disability.

Indications for referral to the ITU are:

• severe course of the disease;
• the course of the disease of moderate severity with no effect of the treatment;
• pronounced mental disorders(asthenia, depression, hysteria, obsessions) against the background of a long course of the disease;
• after surgical treatment - the presence of a poorly functioning intestinal stoma.

You can learn about the features of the diagnosis and treatment of NUC from the following video:

In contact with

Medications natural origin saved mankind at the dawn of time. Natural healing recipes have not lost their relevance for modern people. Treatment of ulcerative colitis with folk remedies is different integrated approach. Biologically active ingredients eliminate inflammation, heal tissues, normalize the work of the gastrointestinal tract, stimulate the immune system for a speedy recovery.

Strategies for managing ulcerative colitis

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis (NSA) - inflammatory response with the formation of bleeding ulcers and erosions on the mucosa of the large intestine. It begins with fever, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, repeated diarrhea in acute period. Then moves on to chronic stage with phases of attenuation and exacerbation. chronic course ulcerative colitis of the intestine, in addition to excruciating diarrhea, pain along the thick section, manifested by aching joints, anemia, loss of strength, emaciation.

In addition to NUC, other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract have similar external symptoms - intestinal neoplasms, helminthic infestations, pseudomembranous colitis, bacterial, fungal, viral lesions intestines. Do not self-diagnose. Correct Diagnosis- the result of the work of a whole team of doctors: a proctologist, an infectious disease specialist, a gastroenterologist, an oncologist, a therapist. Treatment of nonspecific ulcerative colitis folk methods is approved by doctors as an addition to traditional therapy.

Treatment of ulcerative colitis with folk remedies provides a long period of remission, delaying and reducing the brightness of the manifestation of exacerbation.

Folk remedies for the treatment of ulcerative colitis act in the following directions:

• fight inflammation, disinfect;
• regenerate the mucosa;
• stop diarrhea;
• increase their own protective capabilities;
• soothe nervous system, normalize sleep.

It is necessary to use folk remedies after coordinating the course of therapy with the attending physician. As part of natural preparations there are strong biologically active substances that can cause irreparable harm to health if used uncontrolled.

Anti-inflammatory folk remedies

Medicinal products with a high content of salicylates, essential oils, organic acids are endowed with a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.

The most effective folk remedies for NUC put chamomile at the top of the unspoken rating. Her flower baskets are rich in salicylates, essential oils, ascorbic acid, carotene. Connoisseurs of traditional medicine suggest treating ulcerative colitis with chamomile-colored drugs.

Healing potion recipe:

• a tablespoon of dry color;
• 300 ml of boiled water.

Brew in chamomile in a thermos, leave for an hour. Cooled, filtered broth drink 100 ml up to 4 times a day. Launched ulcerative colitis is treated with the use of enemas with a decoction of chamomile inflorescences.

Willow

Willow bark is the leader in salicin content. Infusion of willow bark relieves inflammation of the intestinal mucosa. One of the methods for preparing an anti-inflammatory infusion: pour a teaspoon of dry finely chopped raw materials into 400 ml of warm boiled water. Insist 5 hours. Strained infusion to treat ulcerative colitis, drinking a third of a glass 3 times a day before meals. Quickly relieves exacerbation of chronic colitis.

Turmeric

The spice turmeric, popularly known Indian medicine considered to be a natural antibiotic. It has a bactericidal, antitumor effect. A pinch of powdered rhizomes of turmeric is added to the first courses. It is worth taking it outside the exacerbation phase of NUC, observing moderation.

Licorice root contains an analog of cortisone, an adrenal hormone that suppresses inflammation in the body. Treatment of ulcerative colitis licorice root in adults should be accompanied by caution when it comes to pregnant and lactating women. Licorice preparations increase swelling, provoke allergic responses in children and adults. A thick syrup of licorice root is sold in pharmacies. An hour after eating, dilute a teaspoon of syrup in a glass of warm water or tea, take up to 3 times a day.

Healing agents

IN acute stage NUC special meaning buy regenerating potions. They heal bleeding ulcers on the intestinal mucosa.

Sea ​​buckthorn

In the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases, sea buckthorn preparations occupy a leading position. Generously endowed with carotene, tocopherol, fatty acids, essential compounds sea buckthorn oil is a powerful stimulator of tissue regeneration. Apply it with UC inside a teaspoon on an empty stomach up to 3 times a day. A good healing effect on the rectal mucosa is provided by microclysters with sea buckthorn oil. From 50 to 100 ml of oil heated to 33-35 ° C is carefully injected with a syringe into the rectum and lie for half an hour. The procedure is carried out at night with a course of 5-8 microclysters per month.

Propolis

A popular folk remedy for ulcerative colitis is propolis. This beekeeping product has a rich vitamin and mineral composition, contains amino acids, stearins. Alcohol tinctures, prepared from propolis, heal erosion, strengthen blood vessels, stimulate the immune system. Way home cooking tinctures: pour a tablespoon of crushed propolis with a glass of vodka. Insist 10 days in a dark cool place, strain. Take the tincture three times a day after meals, dissolving 5-10 drops of the drug in a tablespoon of water.

Stool normalization

Attacks of diarrhea cause dehydration and loss of minerals in the body. Astringent folk remedies can cure diarrhea with ulcerative colitis:

• Oak bark;
• pomegranate peel;
• hypericum herb;
• gray alder cones;
• fruits of blueberries and bird cherry;
• quince seeds and fruits.

Optimal use herbal preparations showing a complex therapeutic effect. For example, treatment with a collection of snake mountaineer rhizomes, gray alder seedlings, taken by a teaspoon and brewed with 400 ml of boiling water, will relieve loose stools on the second day. It is advised to drink 100 ml of decoction half an hour before meals 3 times a day.

Immunostimulating agents

Immunostimulating herbs in ulcerative colitis activate the reserve capacity of the body to suppress the pathological process. For patients with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, funds from:

• rose hips;
• herbs and flowers echinacea;
• baskets of calendula;
• oregano herbs.

Herbs that stimulate the immune system contain potent substances. Apply them carefully. Having brewed a teaspoon of dry crushed raw materials with a glass of boiling water, insist for an hour and take a strained broth for a quarter cup 3-4 times a day 20 minutes before meals. The course of treatment and prevention of exacerbation of ulcerative colitis is designed for 2 weeks. Then they take a break for a month and, if desired, continue by changing the medicinal plant.

It is forbidden to treat with oregano, echinacea, calendula for pregnant women. For expectant mothers treating ulcerative colitis, rose hips are useful.

Sedatives and pain relievers

The pain syndrome in ulcerative colitis significantly worsens a person's life, limits his capabilities. You can anesthetize, relieve spasm of the inflamed intestine with folk remedies. Antispasmodic, soothing herbs are peppermint, hop cones, linden flowers.

menthol, thymol, essential oils, terpenes give peppermint antispasmodic, sedative properties. Use mint tea relaxes the intestinal muscles, relieves pain, calms the nervous system. Two tablespoons of mint leaves insist 2 hours in half a liter of boiling water. Take as a tea for painful intestinal spasms in ulcerative colitis.

Hop fruit

The yellow-green seedlings of hops ripening in August-September accumulate valeric acid, trimethylamine, essential oils, and resins. water infusion hop cones is considered in folk medicine as an anticonvulsant, analgesic, light hypnotic. Patients with ulcerative colitis should insist 4 tablespoons of crushed seedlings in 300 ml of boiled water for an hour. Use a tablespoon of bitter infusion 4 times a day before meals.

Linden blossom

Fragrant linden color owes a pleasant smell to farnesol. In addition, fragrant inflorescences are rich in vitamins, saponins, phytoncides. With ulcerative colitis, a proven folk remedy will relieve pain, soothe the irritated mucosa. Pour two tablespoons of crushed inflorescences into 400 ml hot water and soak in a water bath for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, cool, strain and drink half a glass before each meal.

Principles of nutrition in ulcerative colitis

Treatment for inflammation of the intestine makes special demands on the nutrition of the patient. The daily frequency of food intake for ulcerative inflammation of the intestine is 5-6 uniform portions. Smoked, pickled, fried foods, dairy products are excluded from the menu. It is undesirable to use coarse vegetable fiber. Protein deficiency it is replenished with easily digestible low-fat chicken meat, rabbit meat, cod, pike perch, greenling. Boiled vegetables are served to the table in a grated form.

Nutritionists recommend steam pumpkin pulp as a source of dietary fiber, vitamins and trace elements. A handful of peeled raw pumpkin seeds is allowed. Pumpkin seeds have anti-inflammatory, bactericidal properties, have a high nutritional value.

A full recovery of the intestine affected by ulcerative colitis is possible with the participation of medicinal folk remedies. In recipes alternative medicine natural remedies with a proven therapeutic effect are used. The indisputable advantage of natural medicines is the ease of manufacture at a low cost of components.

The information on our website is provided by qualified doctors and is for informational purposes only. Do not self-medicate! Be sure to contact a specialist!

Gastroenterologist, professor, doctor medical sciences. Prescribes diagnostics and conducts treatment. Expert of the group on the study of inflammatory diseases. Author of more than 300 scientific papers.

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory process on the mucous membrane of the colon, accompanied by the appearance of non-healing ulcers, areas of necrosis and bleeding. This pathology differs from simple inflammation. With it, ulcerative defects are formed on the colon mucosa. The long course of the disease increases the likelihood of developing cancer.

Therefore, at the slightest suspicion of this ailment, you should consult a doctor who will recommend the correct treatment of ulcerative colitis with the help of drugs and folk remedies.

What is ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colonic mucosa resulting from an interaction between genetic factors and factors external environment characterized by exacerbations. UC affects the rectum, gradually spreading continuously or immediately capturing the rest of the colon. It is also called non-specific ulcerative colitis (NUC).

It usually occurs in adults aged 20 to 35 years or after 60. In children, this disease occurs extremely rarely and accounts for only 10-15% of cases of all identified pathologies. At the same time, girls are at the highest risk of developing the disease among adolescents, while in the preschool and primary school period, on the contrary, boys.

Ulcerative colitis is classified:

• By clinical course- typical and fulmicant; chronic form (recurrent and continuous);
• localization - distal (proctitis, proctosigmoiditis); left-sided (to the middle of the transverse colon); subtotal; total (pancolitis); total with reflux ileitis (against the background of total, the ileum is involved in the process);
• severity of clinical manifestations.

Pathological anatomy (morphological substrate of the disease) of ulcerative nonspecific colitis is represented by a diffuse superficial lesion of the walls of the large intestine. In the vast majority of cases the disease is localized in the terminal (final) sections of the large intestine: sigmoid and rectum. The defeat of the entire large intestine is much less common. The defeat of the final section of the small intestine is very rare.

Causes

Unfortunately, the exact etiology this disease unknown - scientists managed to find out that the autoimmune process, genetic heredity and certain infectious agents play a role in the formation of the disease.

Ulcerative colitis is more common in urban areas in developed countries. As a rule, the disease develops either in young people or in those over 60, although in fact a person of any age can get this disease.

There are suggestions that it can be provoked by:

• some unidentified infection (but ulcerative colitis is not contagious);
• unbalanced diet (fast food, diet with a lack of fiber, etc.);
• genetic mutations;
• medicines (non-hormonal anti-inflammatory drugs, contraceptives, etc.);
• stress;
• changes in the intestinal microflora.

Under the influence of these factors, the symptoms of ulcerative colitis develop as a result of autoimmune processes in the body.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis of the intestine

Ulcerative colitis has acute phase and the remission phase. The disease begins gradually at first, but quickly gains momentum when the symptoms become more pronounced.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis from the side digestive system:

• cramping pain in the abdomen with localization mainly on the left, which is difficult to remove with drugs;
• diarrhea or loose stools mixed with mucus, blood or pus, worse at night or in the morning;
• constipation that replaces diarrhea, which are caused by intestinal spasm;
• bloating ();
• frequent false urge to defecate (tenesmus) due to delay stool above the area with inflammation;
• spontaneous secretion of mucus, pus and blood (not during the act of defecation) as a result of imperative (irresistible) urges.

In 10% of cases, in addition to the mentioned intestinal and general symptoms, extraintestinal manifestations occur:

• articular lesions;
• various rashes on the skin and mucous membranes (for example, in the mouth);
• eye disorders;
• damage to the liver and bile ducts;
• thrombosis, etc.

They may precede intestinal disorders. The severity of extraintestinal manifestations sometimes depends on the activity inflammatory lesion gut, and in some cases completely unrelated to it.

At mild degree ulcerative colitis patients complain of cramping pain or discomfort in the abdomen, weakness. Possible semi liquid stool 2-4 times a day with a small admixture of blood and mucus.

If ulcerative colitis has more severe degree, then loose stools happen up to 8 times a day with a significant admixture of mucus, blood and pus. With this form of the disease are noted:

• pain in the abdomen, more often in the region of its left half (flank).
• there is a weakness
• little fever,
• weight loss.
• may be tachycardia
• pain in the liver.

Symptoms during an exacerbation

During an exacerbation, symptoms of intoxication appear:

• fever,
• weakness,
• malaise.

A distinctive feature of ulcerative colitis from simple catarrhal is weight loss. Patients often look emaciated. They have a reduced appetite. With colitis of the intestine, ulcerative defects are formed. They may bleed as they pass the stool.

Symptoms may get weaker, then worsen again. If carried out permanent treatment, then the remission phase begins, and the symptoms subside. How often relapses occur is determined by the treatment, and not by how affected the intestines are.

Consequences and possible complications

With absence drug therapy and non-compliance with the diet can develop complications. In this case, the symptoms of ulcerative colitis become more pronounced. Possible the following consequences inflammation of the large intestine:

• massive bleeding;
• toxic expansion of the intestine (formation of megacolon);
• perforation;
• malignancy of ulcers;
• inflammation of the joints;
• defeat internal organs(gallbladder, liver, skin).

Diagnostics

Diagnosis and treatment of ulcerative colitis is carried out by a specialist in therapeutic profile or a gastroenterologist. Suspicion of the disease causes a set of corresponding symptoms:

• diarrhea with impurities of blood, mucus and pus
• abdominal pain;
• arthritis disorders of the eyes against the background of general intoxication of the body.

Laboratory diagnostic methods:

• clinical blood test (increase in the number and ESR, decrease in hemoglobin and red blood cells);
• biochemical blood test (increase in the content of C-reactive protein and immunoglobulins);
• biopsy - histological examination tissue samples;
• analysis of feces for fecal calprotectin - a special marker for the diagnosis of intestinal diseases, which in ulcerative colitis can rise to 100 - 150;
• coprogram (presence hidden blood, leukocytes and erythrocytes).

If the test results confirm the presence of a disease, the doctor prescribes an instrumental examination. An endoscopy is performed to detect possible edema on the mucosa, the presence of pseudopolyps, pus, mucus, blood in the intestine and determine the extent of the organ damage.

Endoscopic studies (colonoscopy, rectosigmoidoscopy) reveal a complex of symptoms characteristic of the pathology in the patient:

• the presence of mucus, blood, pus in the intestinal lumen;
• contact bleeding;
• pseudopolyps;
• granular nature, hyperemia and swelling of the mucous membrane;
• in the remission phase, atrophy of the intestinal mucosa is noted.

X-ray examination is also an effective method for diagnosing ulcerative colitis. As contrast medium this procedure uses a barium mixture. On the radiograph of a patient with ulcerative colitis, the expansion in the lumen of the large intestine, shortening of the intestine, the presence of ulcers, polyps are clearly visualized.

Treatment of ulcerative colitis

Treatment will be symptomatic, it should eliminate the process of inflammation and maintain remission, as well as prevent complications. If medications are not effective, surgery may be indicated.

The objectives of treating a patient with UC are:

• achievement and maintenance of remission (clinical, endoscopic, histological),
• minimization of indications for surgical treatment,
• reducing the frequency of complications and side effects of drug therapy,
• reduction of hospitalization time and cost of treatment,
• improving the patient's quality of life.

The results of treatment largely depend not only on the efforts and qualifications of the doctor, but also on the willpower of the patient, who clearly follows medical recommendations. Available in the doctor's arsenal are modern medications allow many patients to return to normal life.

Medications

To achieve these goals in reality, experts prescribe the following treatment methods to patients with intestinal ulcerative colitis:

• taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for example, Salofalk, Dipentum, Sulfasalazine;
• the use of corticosteroids (Metiprednisolone, Prednisolone);
• antibacterial therapy through the use of drugs such as Tienama, Cifran, Ciprofloxacin, Ceftriaxone;
• taking immunomodulators (Azathioprine, Cyclosporine, Infliximab, Methotrexate);
• intake of calcium and vitamins A, C, K.

In case of development purulent complications or accession of an infection, systemic antibacterial drugs. Medicines alone cannot cure a person. In the remission phase, in the absence of pain and bleeding, physiotherapy procedures are prescribed. The most frequently held:

• Exposure to alternating current.
• Diadynamic therapy.
• interference therapy.

Patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis can be treated on an outpatient basis. Severe patients must be examined and treated in a hospital, because both diagnostic and therapeutic interventions can have serious and even life-threatening complications.

With the correct implementation of the doctor's recommendations, daily adherence to dietary prescriptions, as well as maintenance therapy, it is possible to significantly increase the time of remission and improve the patient's quality of life, however full recovery Unfortunately, the treatment of this disease is impossible to achieve.

Operation

Surgical treatment of ulcerative colitis is indicated for patients who are not helped conservative methods. The indications for surgery are:

• perforation (perforation of the intestinal wall);
• signs of intestinal obstruction;
• abscess;
• the presence of toxic megacolon;
• profuse bleeding;
• fistulas;
• bowel cancer.

It is possible to treat ulcerative intestinal colitis surgically today in the following ways:

1. through partial or total colectomy - excision of the colon;
2. with the help of proctocolectomy - removal of the colon and rectum, leaving the anus;
3. by proctocolectomy and the imposition of a temporary or permanent ileostomy, through which natural waste is removed from the body.

It is necessary to pay attention to possible physical and emotional problems after surgical treatment; care should be taken to ensure that the patient receives all necessary instructions before and after surgery and provide him with all possible medical and psychological support.

Knowing exactly what ulcerative colitis is and how to treat it, we can say with confidence that the prognosis of the disease is quite favorable. Pathological process curable with modern therapies. Most patients experience a complete remission, and only 10% of cases remain unexpressed clinical symptoms.

Diet and proper nutrition

With this disease, normalization of nutrition is of paramount importance. The diet for ulcerative colitis is aimed at mechanical, thermal and chemical sparing of the colon mucosa.

1. The diet is based on the use of chopped, sparing food, steamed or boiled.
2. Forever you should forget about hot sauces, fatty seasonings, alcohol, cigarettes.
3. Fruits and vegetables should be consumed only in a thermally processed form, because in their raw form they contain a lot of fiber, which negatively affects the work of the affected intestine.
4. During an exacerbation, the diet includes liquid and pureed cereals (rice, semolina) on water (milk and broths are excluded). Buckwheat porridge enhances motor skills, so it is not recommended during exacerbation. It is convenient to use porridge for baby food, but they need to be diluted by half with water.

Allowed products:	With ulcerative colitis from the diet you need exclude following products meals and meals:
boiled chicken turkey boiled veal rabbit dried pears dried blueberries buckwheat (ground) semolina oat groats white rice white bread crumbs butter	flour products: pasta, pastries, cookies, cakes; rich, fatty and milky soups; fatty meats or fish; canned food; dairy products: raw, fried eggs, kefir, sour cream, milk; cereals: barley, millet, barley; any snacks and smoked meats; sweets, chocolate; fruits and berries, dried fruits; jams, preserves; sauces, mayonnaise, tomato; any alcohol; spices.

To find out exactly what foods you are allowed to eat, consult your doctor.

Menu for ulcerative colitis for the day

A diet for ulcerative colitis can be implemented through the following menu option.

1. Breakfast: cereal porridge with 1 tsp. ghee butter, steam cutlet, rosehip broth.
2. Lunch: curd mass, berry jelly.
3. Lunch: potato soup with meatballs, rice and minced meat casserole, compote.
4. Afternoon snack: green tea, crackers.
5. Dinner: vegetable stew, fish cutlet, tea.
6. Before going to bed: kefir / baked apple.

This menu option is suitable for the period after exacerbation. Additionally, you can eat 200-250 grams of dried bread, 1 glass of jelly or compote.

The diet for ulcerative colitis of the colon, including the rectum, leads to a number of positive changes:

• promotes speedy recovery normal stool, eliminating diarrhea or constipation;
• increases the effectiveness of medicines, as it compensates for the loss of protein, accelerates the healing of the mucous membrane, due to which a number of drugs begin to act more actively;
• makes up for the loss useful substances, restores metabolism and energy reserves.

Folk remedies

IN medical therapy it is also allowed to use folk remedies, but only if the disease is on initial stage development and treatment in consultation with the doctor. Most effective ways treatment of the disease, according to patients, are fasting, refusal to eat animal food, the transition to a raw food diet. From herbal remedies, decoctions of yarrow, alder cones, wormwood, sage, potato juice help well.

1. 100 g in dried watermelon rind pour 2 cups boiling water, insist and strain. Take up to 6 times a day for 100 g. This allows you to relieve inflammation in the intestines in acute and chronic form illness.
2. Great for reducing inflammation in the intestines potato juice. It is enough to grate a potato, squeeze the juice out of it and drink half an hour before meals.
3. Take an equal amount of peppermint leaves, inflorescences of chamomile, rhizomes of Potentilla erect. Infuse 1 tablespoon of the mixture for 30 minutes in 1 cup of boiling water, strain. Take 1 glass 2-3 times a day for colitis.
4. Treat acute symptoms cherry helps a lot. traditional healers it is recommended to prepare a decoction (one spoonful of flowers per glass of water). Take three times, every day for ¼ cup.

Prevention

Prevention of the development of this pathology of the intestine is proper nutrition and periodic examination. It is important to treat chronic diseases of the digestive tract in a timely manner. The prognosis for ulcerative colitis in the absence of complications is favorable.

Ulcerative colitis - serious illness which requires immediate and competent treatment. Do not postpone a visit to the doctor when the first symptoms appear. It is important to remember that in the case of the development of an acute form of the disease, the organ is affected quickly, which can lead to the development of cancer or various complications.

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis is a rare and not fully understood pathology. Some consider genetic predisposition as the main reason, others - the influence of external factors, including alcohol, smoking, stress and malnutrition. We will not dwell on the causes of the disease for a long time - 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 chronic illness the large intestine, which is part of the digestive system where water is removed from undigested food and digestion waste remains. The large intestine ends in the rectum, which, in turn, passes into the anus. In patients with ulcerative colitis, the lining of the intestine becomes inflamed, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. Next, we will talk about the features of the disease of nonspecific ulcerative colitis, the symptoms, the 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 ailments can be combined under the concept of inflammatory bowel disease. Ulcerative colitis and 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 childhood. 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 - their pathology is extremely rare. For unknown reasons, an increased frequency of this ailment has been observed recently in developing countries. There is also a high likelihood of colitis in those whose relatives are familiar with such a diagnosis.

What are the causes of ulcerative colitis

There are no reliable factors for the development of colitis, and at present there is no convincing evidence that this is infectious disease. Most experts are inclined to believe that ulcerative colitis occurs due to impaired functioning of the immune system in the intestine. In this case, abnormal activation of immune cells and proteins occurs, the activity of which leads to inflammation. The predisposition to abnormal immune activation is inherited genetically. Research scientists have found 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 present? Treatment of the disease is primarily determined by its type. Common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. But, in addition to 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 - false calls to defecation 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 have bloody stools and seizures.
• Left-sided colitis is localized in the rectum and spreads up the left side of the colon (to the sigmoid and descending), manifested by bloody diarrhea, sharp decline weight, pain in the abdomen.
• Pancolitis, or universal colitis, involves 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 often shock. This form of colitis is treated with intravenous administration drugs, in some cases, it may be necessary to promptly remove the affected part of the colon to prevent its rupture.

Most often, any of the listed forms of colitis remains localized in the same part of the intestine, it rarely happens that one passes 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 studies are carried out:

Scientific studies also indicate that the presence of the protein calprotectin in the feces can be considered as 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 for ulcerative colitis includes medication and surgical methods. Surgery is indicated for severe forms of colitis and complications, life threatening. 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 during relapses. Relief most often occurs as a result of treatment, sometimes exacerbations can go away on their own, without outside intervention.

Medical therapy

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

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

Medicines are divided into two large groups:

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

5-ASA preparations

5-aminosalicylic acid, or Mesalamine, is a remedy for chemical structure close to aspirin, which for a long time used to treat arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis. However, unlike 5-ASA, aspirin is not effective against ulcerative colitis. The drug "Mesalamine" can be delivered directly to the site of inflammation with the help of an enema, but taking the drug inside is more effective. Initially, doctors had a problem - with oral administration of the drug, most of the active substance is absorbed when passing through the stomach and upper part small intestine before it reaches the large intestine. Therefore, to increase the effectiveness of 5-aminosalicylic acid was modified in chemical forms, which remain stable until hitting lower divisions digestive system.

As a result, the following preparations were obtained:

• "Sulfasalazine" - a stable structure of two molecules of 5-aminosalicylic acid, has been successfully used for many years in inducing remission in patients with mild to 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 without damage through the stomach and small intestine, and reaching the iliac and colon, dissolves, releasing 5-ASA. This drug is also known as Asacol, it is recommended to take it according to following scheme- 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.
• "Olsalazin", or "Dipentum" is a modification of 5-ASA, in which the molecules of the active substance are connected to one inert molecule, which also allows you to reach the focus of inflammation.

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

• Balsalazid, or Colazal.
• "Pentaza".
• enema and suppositories "Rovaz".
• 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 tissues to be effective. These are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that are taken orally. After entering the blood, they have therapeutic effect for the whole organism. Treatment of ulcerative colitis with these drugs is very effective. In critically ill patients, corticosteroids are given intravenously (eg, hydrocortisone). These compounds act faster than 5-ASA and the patient 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 as maintenance of remissions.

Side effects of corticosteroids

They depend on the dose and duration of administration. Short courses of treatment with Prednisolone are well tolerated and have virtually no side effects. When taken long term high doses corticosteroids may develop some complications, including serious ones. Among them:

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

To the most dangerous complications taking corticosteroids should be considered aseptic necrosis hip joints and decreased ability of the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. In a disease such as ulcerative colitis, treatment with corticosteroids requires extreme caution and medical supervision. These drugs should only be used for the shortest amount of time. Treatment usually begins with the appointment of Prednisolone at a dosage of up to 60 mg per day. As soon as the condition begins to improve, the amount of the drug 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 intake of preparations of this element. This is necessary to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.

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

From modern means group of corticosteroids, drugs such as Budesonide and Golimumab can be distinguished.

Immunomodulators

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

Examples of immunomodulators:

• Azathioprine and Purinethol reduce the activity of leukocytes. IN large dosages these two drugs are used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs and to treat leukemia. In low doses, they are successfully used as a therapy for a disease such as ulcerative colitis. Treatment, reviews of which can be read on clinic websites and medical forums, in most cases is effective.
• "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 cirrhosis of the liver, especially in patients who abuse alcohol, as well as pneumonia. In addition, the drug should not be used during pregnancy.
• Cyclosporine, or Sandimmun, is a powerful immunosuppressant that is effective for quickly controlling the development of severe colitis or delaying surgery. side effect is an increase blood pressure, convulsions, impaired renal function.
• Infliximab, or Remicade, is a protein that acts as an antibody against proteins produced by immune cells. It is used to treat colitis and Crohn's disease if corticosteroids and immunomodulators have been ineffective.

Surgery

Surgery for ulcerative colitis usually involves 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 following groups patients:

• patients with fulminant colitis and toxic megacolon (widening of the colon wall);
• people with pancolitis and left-sided colitis who are on the verge of developing colon cancer;
• patients who have experienced many relapses over the years, refractory to treatment.

Recently, an innovation has been introduced that involves replacing the removed colon with a cover made from the intestine. It serves as a reservoir similar to the rectum and is emptied regularly through a small tube. This operation is called an ileostomy.

Ulcerative colitis: treatment, diet

It is likely that a special diet may benefit patients with ulcerative colitis. However, there is no evidence to support that treatment for ulcerative colitis is more effective with dietary changes. Despite extensive research, no single diet has been shown to slow the progression of the disease. In this regard, general recommendations can be made based on the observance of a healthy, balanced nutrition, rich in fruits, vegetables, cereals, lean meats, nuts, fish. Patients should limit their intake of saturated fats. During an exacerbation, grated soft foods are recommended to minimize discomfort. Further you can read about the alternative treatment of ulcerative colitis.

ethnoscience

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

Mix dried chamomile, yarrow and sage flowers in equal parts. 3 art. 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 tool is considered a good prevention of exacerbations of colitis.

Traditional healers advise for ulcerative colitis of the intestine to reinforce the treatment with the use of potato juice. Grate the peeled tubers and squeeze the juice. Drink half a glass half an hour before meals.

A decoction of strawberry or bird cherry leaves, linden tea, an infusion of calendula flowers, herbal preparations, parsley root - whole volumes can be written about natural remedies for 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 the one prescribed by the doctor. No matter how varied and touted folk recipes are, they cannot be considered as the main treatment. Do not forget that the treatment of ulcerative colitis with folk remedies is only a measure that can accompany the main methods of therapy. Also, check with your doctor before using any prescription.