Remedies for ulcerative colitis constipation

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Common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include diarrhea and bloody, frequent stools, but constipation can also affect some individuals.

A person has constipation when they have fewer than three bowel movements a week. These movements may produce hard, dry stools that are difficult or painful to pass.

There are different types of ulcerative colitis, but the most common form is distal ulcerative colitis. This type affects about 80% of people who receive a new diagnosis.

In distal ulcerative colitis, the symptoms only affect the left side of the colon. When a person has ulcerative colitis on the left side, they can experience constipation on the right side — this is called proximal constipation.

Is there a link between stress and constipation? Find out here.

Conditions other than ulcerative colitis that may cause constipation include:

• irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn’s disease
• celiac disease

IBS

IBS can cause cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including constipation. However, it does not involve inflammation, and it does not cause severe damage to the intestines.

Experts do not know why IBS happens, but it does not appear to involve an immune system response.

IBS can cause constipation, diarrhea, or both. Ongoing abdominal pain is also a common IBS symptom.

Get some tips here on coping with IBS.

Crohn’s disease

Ulcerative colitis only attacks the large intestine and the rectum.

Crohn’s disease is another form of IBD that can occur anywhere along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which runs from the mouth to the anus. However, it commonly affects the small intestine.

Constipation can signal that the disease is getting worse. It may indicate a stricture or narrowing of the intestine, also known as an obstruction.

There are several types of Crohn’s disease. Learn more here.

Celiac disease

A person with celiac disease has an inflammatory response to gluten in the diet. This response causes injury to the lining of the small intestine. The symptoms eventually disappear if a person removes products that contain gluten, such as bread and pasta, from the diet.

People with ulcerative colitis can learn to manage the symptoms of flare-ups while increasing the length of remissions. Find out how to do this.

A person with ulcerative colitis should have regular checkups with their doctor to discuss changes in their symptoms, including constipation.

Symptoms that require medical treatment include:

• frequent, bloody stools
• severe stomach pain
• abdominal distention
• persistent vomiting
• fatigue
• loss of appetite
• unexplained weight loss
• anemia
• fever

Without treatment, ulcerative colitis can lead to a number of complications. Find out why it is essential to see a doctor if symptoms arise.

Experts have not yet identified exactly what causes ulcerative colitis, but many believe that it is an autoimmune disease that results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

It is a long-term, or chronic, condition, and the symptoms can change or worsen over time.

However, treatment is available. Options include:

Aminosalicylates: These help manage inflammation.

Corticosteroids: These help reduce inflammation and regulate the immune system.

Immunomodulators and biologic treatments: These change how the immune system works.

Other medications: Various options can help manage symptoms.

With treatment, symptoms can go away for weeks, months, or even years. This symptom-free period is called remission. However, some people will eventually need surgery.

For people with ulcerative colitis, constipation may be a recurring problem. Following a treatment plan and dietary guidelines can help a person manage the condition and improve their overall quality of life.

Learn more about ulcerative colitis remission here.

Read this article in Spanish.