What is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in which inflammation and ulceration occur in the large intestine and/or rectum.
In the normal functioning of GIT (Gastro-Intestinal tract), the food passes from the mouth through the esophagus in the stomach, then to the small intestine, and further into the large intestine (also known as the colon). The water content from the food is absorbed by the colon and stored in the rectum for further bowel movements, after which it is excreted as feces from the anus.
There can be ulceration and inflammation in the colon or the rectal region.
Ulcerative colitis can begin gradually and get worse over time: many times, the patient experiences no symptoms or mild symptoms. Ulcerative colitis is known for its fluctuating periods of normalcy and sudden bowel discomfort.
Ulcerative colitis can also increase the risk of colon cancer.
Chron’s disease is one of the other common Irritable bowel disease (IBD). Chron’s disease affects the small intestine whereas Ulcerative colitis commonly affects the large intestine.
How Can Homeopathic Treatment Help In Managing Ulcerative Colitis?
- Homeopathy is extremely effective in treating Chronic Ulcerative colitis.
- Homeopathy helps in addressing the underlying pathology of Ulcerative Colitis. It helps in correcting the immune system which is responsible for ulcer formations in the intestinal tract. Hence, the homeopathic treatment targets the root cause of Ulcerative Colitis as well as its symptoms.
- Dependency on conventional medications can be tapered off gradually and may also be stopped eventually. Hence, homeopathy also helps keep the patient safe from long term side-effects of conventional medications.
- Homeopathic treatment is absolutely safe and free from side effects.
- Homeopathy helps in reducing the severity, frequency, and recurrence of Ulcerative Colitis, thereby, providing a long-term solution.
- Surgery can be avoided if timely homeopathic treatment is taken in the case of Ulcerative Colitis. Early cases of Ulcerative colitis show better improvement with homeopathy compared to the ones in the later stages.
Duration Of Homeopathic Treatment:
Initial improvement with homeopathic treatment can be observed within 3-4 months.
However, getting treated completely for ulcerative colitis, it can take anywhere around 6 months to 2 years or longer, depending on various parameters.
The duration needed for homeopathic treatment may vary from case to case depending on several factors such as:
- Since how many months/years the patient is suffering from GERD?
- How frequently is the condition occurring?
- Are there any other medications being taken?
- What is the severity of the condition?
Common Homeopathic Remedies For Ulcerative Colitis
Mercurius Solubilis, Arsenicum Album, Carcinosin, Kali Bichromatum, Magnesium, Muriaticum, and Kali carbonicum are some of the few homeopathic remedies used for Ulcerative Colitis Treatment.
Brief descriptions of the homeopathic remedies mentioned above are provided below:
1) Mercurius Solubilis (Mercury): This remedy for treatment for ulcerative colitis benefits individuals with symptoms of tenesmus- a frequent desire to evacuate the bowels associated with profuse diarrhoea with mucus and blood. The patient does complain of pain in the abdomen, cramps, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation of stool. There is excessive mucus discharge along with stool which can be slimy or stringy in nature. Some individuals do suffer from fever along with chills and sweating. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis like diarrhea and pain worsen at night, Merc sol is indicated. Individuals requiring Merc sol feel fatigued and debilitated due to ongoing ulcerative colitis symptoms. The characteristic indication for this homeopathic medicine for ulcerative colitis is increased thirst, especially for cold drinks, this remedy is well suited.
2) Arsenicum album: Arsenicum album may be indicated in cases of Ulcerative colitis when there is profound weakness and exhaustion due to recurrent diarrhea, especially after passing stools. There is a burning sensation in the abdomen and rectum. The pain could be severe with the sensation of heat all over the body. The stools are watery, foul smelling with burning pain. Arsenicum album is indicated in people who feel anxious and restless and have a lot of fear of health. When Arsenicum album is displayed, individuals may present with a distinct thirst pattern, preferring to consume small sips of water at frequent intervals.
3) Carcinosinum: Carcinosinum may be considered in cases of Ulcerative colitis when it is developed or symptoms of ulcerative colitis are worsened after suppressed emotions, especially resentment, anger, and grief—this homeopathic medicine for colitis targets to address the physical symptoms as well as the emotional imbalances. Carcinosinum is often considered when one experiences physical as well as mental exhaustion due to chronic ulcerative colitis symptoms. It is often indicated when the symptoms are persistent and not responding well to conventional treatments and also if there is a history of cancer in the family. In homeopathic practice, familial predispositions and genetic tendencies are often integral to remedy selection.
4) Kali bichromatum: Ulcerative colitis homeopathy treatment, Kali Bichromatum is indicated when the stools are slimy, stringy, and difficult to pass. The stool is loose mixed with mucus and blood. The presence of ulcers causes pain and discomfort and may cause soreness, especially in the sigmoid colon region. Individuals who need kali bichromatum may experience worsening of symptoms in the morning.
5) Magnesium muriaticum: It is indicated for ulcerative colitis with burning pain in the abdomen. Stools are watery with burning sensations. The patient does feel weak and exhausted, especially after passing stools. Individuals who require Magnesium muriaticum are chilly and feel better from warmth.
6) Muriaticum acidum: Individuals requiring Muriaticum acidum show symptoms of profuse, watery diarrhea and stools that are foul-smelling with blood. There may be a sensation of burning in the rectum and feels better from warm applications and worse from cold.
7) Kali carbonicum: Kali carb is useful for individuals who suffer from cutting pain in the abdomen because of ulcerative colitis. The stools are bloody, slimy, and offensive. The individuals who benefit from kali carb feel weak and exhausted particularly in the morning.
However, homeopathic medications required for each case of Ulcerative Colitis may vary depending on the case.
Prevalence of Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a global condition affecting people all around the world.
The age group of 15-40 is comparatively more affected by this IBD.
Causes of Ulcerative Colitis
As it is an autoimmune disorder, the exact cause of ulcerative colitis is still not known. However, there are certain factors (both intrinsic and extrinsic) that are believed to have an impact on the condition.
INTRINSIC FACTORS
1) Immune system
Certain alterations in immunity in the form of Allergy or Auto-immunity may trigger Ulcerative Colitis. It is believed that Ulcerative Colitis can be an increased response (allergy) to certain food items or the organisms present in the large intestine. Auto-immune response by the body is in which the body’s defense system attacks its very own organs and tissues. In this case, the organs are the colon and rectum.
2) Hereditary / Genetic Factors
The chances of suffering from Ulcerative Colitis increase when any member of your family suffers from the same.
3) Psychosomatic Factors
Any kind of severe stress may act as the root cause or triggering factor for Ulcerative Colitis. It is common in most patients that the episodes of Ulcerative Colitis start after a very stressful period in their life.
EXTRINSIC FACTORS
1) Drugs
Certain studies have shown links between Ulcerative colitis and Oral contraceptive pills. Some drugs, such as NSAIDs, antibiotics, and Isotretinoin, have been found to trigger and cause Ulcerative Colitis and Chron’s disease in some patients.
2) Dietary factors
High intake of refined sugar and junk food has shown to increase the risk of the occurrence of Ulcerative Colitis, according to a few studies. During a flare-up, patients have noticed a certain change in food to be the cause of this condition.
Symptoms Of Ulcerative Colitis
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary depending on the severity and the affected area.
The most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:
1) Diarrhea
There is a sudden urge to pass motions. The patient may experience increased visits to toilets (sometimes 10-15 times in a day). The diarrhea is often accompanied by pus or blood.
2) Abdominal cramps and Pain
Bowel habits may start with severe abdominal pain and discomfort. The patient may experience a sense of urgency to pass the motions along with the pain.
3) Nausea and Vomiting
Flare-ups of Ulcerative colitis can result in nausea and vomiting.
4) A loss of appetite and weight loss
The patient often loses his appetite which results in weight loss. The patient may appear very weak and sick due to the same.
5) Constipation
Constipation can occur in patients suffering from Ulcerative colitis during certain fluctuations in a disease condition.
6) Tenesmus
Tenesmus makes the patient suffer from cramping rectal pain. It makes you feel that you need to have a bowel movement, even when you have had one already. The patient often feels there is stool remaining to be evacuated, hence, resulting in unsatisfactory bowel movements.
Complications:
Other than the intestinal symptoms, patients may suffer from certain extra-intestinal symptoms affecting other organs of the body like joints, skin, eyes, etc.
1) Joints: Pain and swelling in the joints.
2) Skin: Skin rashes can occur in people suffering from Ulcerative colitis. Common skin conditions observed are Erythema nodosum and Pyoderma gangrenosum.
3) Eyes: Blurred vision, pain, and sensitivity to the eyes can occur in about 10% of the people suffering from Ulcerative colitis. Infections of the eyes such as Iritis, Conjunctivitis, etc. can also occur as complications.
4) Liver: Fatty liver, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis can also occur as a complication of Ulcerative Colitis.
Diagnosis Of Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is usually diagnosed clinically.
1) Case History
A detailed and thorough case history helps the physician to diagnose the condition as Ulcerative colitis.
2) Routine Physical Check-ups
A routine physical check-up including abdominal tenderness and weight loss can give indications of Ulcerative Colitis.
Diagnostic Tests May Include:
- Stool tests: To detect the presence of bacteria, blood, or parasites.
- Biopsy: A tissue sample is removed for a detailed analysis.
- Endoscopy: This involves a flexible tube put through to analyze the stomach, esophagus, and small intestine.
- Colonoscopy: This involves a flexible tube put through to analyze the large intestine.
- CT Scan: This is a specialized X-ray technique used to view the abdomen and pelvis.
Treatment For Ulcerative Colitis (conventional in brief)
Conventional treatment includes medications as well as surgical treatment for Ulcerative Colitis.
A. Medications: Common medications for the treatment of Ulcerative colitis include Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Antibiotics, Corticosteroids, Analgesics, and Immuno-suppressive medications.
B. Surgery:
Surgical procedures include:
1) Colostomy
A surgical abdominal opening where stool can leave the body is created.
2) Ileostomy
A surgical procedure connecting the small intestine to an opening in the abdomen
3) Colectomy
Removal of all or part of the colon surgically.
4) Proctocolectomy
Removal of the rectum or part of the colon.
Tips For Ulcerative Colitis
1) Have a healthy, balanced diet throughout the day. Avoid snacking on processed foods.
2) Avoid high-fiber foods, such as whole-wheat bread, pulses, beans, lentils, sprouts, etc. Less fiber intake is helpful for bowel movements in ulcerative colitis when suffering from diarrhea. Fiber intake is suggested during episodes of constipation if any.
3) Avoid dairy products, such as cheese, butter, ghee, etc. as it can trigger attacks of ulcerative colitis in some patients.
4) Avoid carbonated beverages and caffeinated drinks.
5) Avoid red meat in the diet. Lean proteins in the form of chicken shreds, egg whites, and fish can be consumed.
6) Avoid gluten-rich foods as it can worsen the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Gluten-rich foods include maida products, white bread, wheat, barley, biscuits, etc., which you should avoid.
7) Avoid processed foods, such as chips, pasta, bread, etc.
8) Have an adequate intake of water. Hydration is a key factor, particularly if the patient is suffering from episodes of diarrhea. Also, a solution of salt and glucose in water can help alleviate the episodes of diarrhea.
9) Manage stress with yoga, breathing exercises, or Meditation.
10) Daily exercise in the form of walking or active sports is also good for overall health and immunity.
Our Experience In Treating Ulcerative Colitis At Life Force
- Life Force Homeopathy is the first homeopathic clinic to have research-based homeopathic patented medications for Ulcerative colitis.
- Life Force’s homeopathic medications have proven to be scientifically capable of treating Ulcerative Colitis.
- We have observed excellent improvement in relief from ulcerative colitis in early detected cases of ulcerative colitis.
- Homeopathy is quite effective as a supportive treatment for the cases of Ulcerative colitis with a history of conventional treatment.
- Timely administered homeopathic treatment may help to prevent surgery for the cases of Ulcerative Colitis.