Those who suffer from ulcerative colitis are no stranger to the pain associated with it. The condition causes inflammation and sores in the large intestine. Side effects of the ruined lining in the colon, ulcers, and pus are just a few of the painful emotional and physical symptoms that can follow. However, there are ways to properly address the pain to ensure that you do not continue living in discomfort. For more information on treating ulcerative colitis pain, contact your LA gastroenterologist today.
Dr. Tabib is a seasoned expert in treating patients with debilitating ulcerative colitis pain.
Start by Assessing Where the Pain is Coming From
Although ulcerative colitis largely stems from issues with the large intestine, the pain associated with this condition can affect other parts of the body as well. Therefore, pinpointing where your pain is stemming will give Dr. Tabib an idea of where to start with addressing pain relief. For some, abdominal pain is the main symptom. However, for others, the condition affects the immune system. It can spread pain to other parts of the body.
Some other conditions associated with ulcerative colitis according to include: arthritis, eye inflammation, hepatitis, cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, osteoporosis, skin rash, and anemia to name a few. Since arthritis pain and abdominal pain present very differently, it is important that you give your doctor as much information as possible to ensure that proper pain relief is implemented. You should also consider keeping a log on when the pain flares up and how severe it is. This will help you and your doctor find any initially unknown triggers that may have otherwise gone unaddressed.
Treatment Options
Once you’ve been diagnosed and the consequent symptoms have been discussed, the next step is to follow Dr. Tabib’s orders. Since ulcerative colitis can present differently in each patient, the treatment options advised will likely be different as well. For more minor cases you may be advised to make dietary changes immediately to help control your symptoms. This can include instructions like removing dairy, raw fruits, and raw vegetables from your diet. These changes to your eating habits can significantly impact your system and start healing you from the inside. For others, Dr. Tabib may recommend more intensive options, like drug therapy, to improve your condition. Three categories of drugs that battle ulcerative colitis include aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and immunomodulators.
Dr. Tabib may prescribe you other medications to offer optimal relief. These additional medications can include everything from medication to treat infection, relief pain, or stop diarrhea. It is also important to note that surgery may also be in your future if the previous two interventions do not help. In fact, between 25% and 40% of patients will require surgery throughout their ulcerative colitis journey. This surgery will remove the colon, and will likely become an option if there are any adverse reactions to the medication or if there is a risk of cancer. Make sure to speak in-depth with Dr. Tabib about all treatment options available before making a decision.
Gastroenterologist in Los Angeles
If you are tired of living with the symptoms of ulcerative colitis or know it is time for treatment, then it is time to schedule a visit to Dr. Tabib. Dr. Tabib creates personalized gastroenterology treatment plans for each patient’s unique needs. Not only does this effective address pain relief, but it also improves their quality of life so that ulcerative colitis symptoms are no longer a hindrance. Get more information on your treatment plan by contacting our office today!
