Dealing with colitis can feel chaotic: sudden pain, diarrhea, and fatigue that wreck plans. The good news is there are clear steps that often help right away and long-term options to keep you stable. This page gives practical, no-nonsense guidance on common treatments, what to try during a flare, and when to call your doctor.
If symptoms spike, start simple: rest, drink fluids, and skip foods that make your stool worse (spicy food, high-fiber raw veggies, nuts). Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen — they can worsen inflammation. Track symptoms: how bad is the pain, how many bowel movements, any blood or fever? If you see heavy bleeding, a high fever, signs of dehydration, or severe pain, get urgent medical care.
For mild flares many people feel better with short-term changes: bland, low-residue meals, small portions, and extra hydration with electrolyte drinks. Over-the-counter loperamide can reduce diarrhea for short periods, but don’t use it if you have a high fever or bloody stools without talking to your clinician.
Treatment depends on type and severity. For mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, doctors often start with aminosalicylates — names you might see include mesalazine (mesalamine). These reduce inflammation in the colon and can be taken orally or as a suppository/enema for lower-colon disease.
Moderate to severe flares usually need a short course of corticosteroids like prednisone to calm inflammation quickly. Steroids work fast but aren’t for long-term use because of side effects. To maintain remission, providers often use immunomodulators (azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine) or biologic drugs (infliximab, adalimumab, vedolizumab) that target immune pathways. Antibiotics are used when infection is suspected or for certain types of colitis.
Surgery is an option when medication fails or complications arise. For ulcerative colitis, removing the colon can cure the disease, though it’s a major step and needs careful planning with your surgical team.
Many people ask about probiotics, dietary changes, or supplements. Some find symptom relief from specific diets (low-FODMAP, low-residue) or probiotics, but results vary. Always check changes with your gastroenterologist — some supplements can interfere with meds.
Long-term care includes regular follow-up, blood tests, and colonoscopies when recommended. That helps catch complications early and guides medication adjustments. If you’re managing colitis, build a simple plan with your clinician: what to do during a flare, which meds to use, and clear warning signs that mean go to the ER.
Want practical next steps? Keep a symptom log, carry an emergency meds list, and set up a follow-up appointment after any flare. Small preparations save a lot of stress when colitis acts up.
Mesalamine enemas are a vital treatment option for managing inflammation in conditions like ulcerative colitis. This article explores what mesalamine enemas do, how they work, and what patients should expect during treatment. By understanding the benefits and potential side effects, individuals can better manage their condition. Practical tips are provided for ensuring proper administration and enhancing the treatment experience. Patients can gain valuable insights to effectively utilize this therapy.