If you suffer from ulcerative colitis (UC), you undoubtedly want to find ways to alleviate the discomfort and agony you experience in your digestive tract. But there may be supplementary health concerns arising from the condition. UC may produce issues outside the colon, although less visible. Find out more about the four hazards and the measures you may take to control and avoid them.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is more common in people with UC because drugs used to treat the condition, such as prednisone and cortisone, may induce bone loss. The severity of bone loss increases if these medications are administered for longer to treat UC. With osteoporosis, bone density decreases, and fractures become more likely.
Diets high in calcium and vitamin D are recommended to prevent osteoporosis. Low-fat dairy products, green vegetables, and orange juice with added calcium are all good options. Bone health may also be promoted by avoiding smoking and regular physical activity like walking or running.
Arthritis
Pain in the joints is a typical symptom of UC. Up to 30 percent of people of all ages diagnosed with UC are also diagnosed with arthritis. This joint inflammation seems to originate in the gut. Joint inflammation and discomfort are common symptoms of arthritis. It may also make you less flexible.
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The degree of gastrointestinal issues often correlates with the intensity of arthritis pain. UC flare-ups exacerbate arthritis pain. Arthritis symptoms tend to lessen when the disease is under control.
Keeping UC under control is, thus, the greatest strategy to avoid arthritic discomfort. Stay in constant communication with your healthcare provider while you search for appropriate therapy. Remember that arthritis sufferers might benefit from taking any drug that reduces intestinal inflammation.
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Blood Clots
Research shows that the rate of Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with UC is double that of the general population. That's because UC-related inflammation affects blood coagulation processes in subtle ways.
Blood clots in the legs are called deep vein thrombosis. If this happens, a life-threatening blood clot might break off and go to the lungs.
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Unfortunately, it may be hard to recognize the symptoms of DVT. Only around half of those with the illness show signs of it, which might include redness, swelling, and discomfort.
Find out whether you have DVT with a simple test from your doctor. Exercising regularly, keeping a healthy weight, avoiding prolonged sitting, and even using compression stockings can all aid in the prevention of the illness.
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Anemia
When there are not enough healthy red blood cells floating around in your blood, you have anemia. Inadequate levels of hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein, may also cause anemia. The oxygen in the lungs is transported to the cells through hemoglobin.
Due to blood loss in the bowels, people with UC are more likely to develop anemia. Due to low blood oxygen levels, people experience fatigue and weakness.
Those who suffer from UC should strive to keep their colitis under control as a means of avoiding anemia. In addition, you should take measures to increase your iron intake.
From your doctor, inquire about iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid supplements, as well as dietary adjustments that might increase iron levels. Iron-rich foods include red meat, chicken, turkey, hog, ham, and fish. Spinach, tofu, legumes, dried fruits, iron-fortified cereals and bread are all good iron sources for vegetarians.
Never ignore any symptoms, and always report them to your doctor. You may feel better and increase your quality of life by reducing the negative consequences of UC.
