Ulcerative Colitis
-
Nalamaree Team
- 22 August 2025
Overview
UC involves the inner lining of the large intestine. It is autoimmune in nature and often follows a relapsing-remitting course. It increases risk for colon cancer with long-standing disease.
Causes
- Autoimmune response
- Genetic predisposition
- Environmental triggers
- Altered gut microbiota
Symptoms
- Bloody diarrhea, urgency
- Abdominal cramps
- Fatigue, weight loss
- Rectal bleeding
- Fever (in severe flares)
Treatment: Modern Medicine
- Diagnosis: Colonoscopy with biopsy, stool tests, CRP
- Treatment:
- 5-ASA drugs (Mesalamine)
- Steroids for flares
- Immunosuppressants (Azathioprine)
- Biologics (Infliximab, Adalimumab)
- Surgery (Colectomy for severe cases)
Treatment: Traditional Medicine
- Ayurveda: Kutaja, Bilva, Nagaramustaka for diarrhea; Takra (buttermilk) therapy
- Siddha: Decoctions for gut inflammation
- Unani: Gut tonics and mufarreh drugs
- TCM: Huang Lian, Bai Zhu for intestinal heat and dampness
- Homeopathy: Mercurius corrosivus, Aloe socotrina
- Nutraceuticals: Probiotics, Omega-3, Curcumin, L-glutamine
Caution
- Monitor for anemia and dehydration
- Regular colonoscopy for cancer screening
Prevention
- Anti-inflammatory diet (low FODMAP or SCD)
- Stress management
- Avoid NSAIDs
