Even though there is no cure for UC, individuals do have the hope of working with their doctor to develop a combination of treatment options that can help control symptoms of the disease. These treatments include:
Medications: Certain medications can help suppress inflammation in the colon- which allows tissues to heal. Other medications can help manage symptoms (such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, etc.). Meanwhile, others can also help decrease the frequency and/or severity of a flare-up.
Combination Therapy: Your doctor may suggest adding another therapy that will help increase the effectiveness of your current medication therapy. Diet and Nutrition: While foods do not directly cause UC, they can trigger flare-ups. We suggest meeting with your doctor to discuss a nutrition plan that helps reduce your symptoms/flares and ensures that you are getting enough nutrients. Surgery: Getting surgery is not an easy decision. One may consider surgery if their medical therapy is unsuccessful (which means that symptoms are progressively getting worse) or specific complications have arisen. Surgery for UC may involve the removal of the colon and rectum (also known as proctocolectomy).