Home - health - Signs And Complications Of Ulcerative Colitis

Signs and complications of ulcerative colitis

Signs and complications of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum, causing sores, ulcers, and bleeding. Symptoms for this condition generally develop between the ages of 15 and 30 or between 50 to 70. The condition develops in flare-ups and then may disappear for weeks or months at a time. Here are some of the early signs of ulcerative colitis one may observe:

Diarrhea
One of the early signs of ulcerative colitis that people notice is watery diarrhea combined with a frequent and sudden urge to pass bowel movements. One may feel the need to pass bowel movements up to 10 times a day, and this can significantly affect their daily life. For those living with UC, uncontrollable diarrhea could lead to medical emergencies like severe dehydration, perforated colon, or sepsis.

Rectal bleeding
Those with UC may also experience blood or mucus in their stools, especially during a flare. This is because the blood from the ulcers reaches the surface of the rectum. One should consult a doctor immediately after observing this symptom.

Abdominal and rectal pain
People with UC may experience mild-to-severe abdominal or rectal pain. It may also occur in the form of persistent muscle spasms and cramping. Excessive abdominal or rectal pain could be a sign of an oncoming UC flare-up.

Fever
Some people with the condition also develop a chronic, low-grade fever. However, if the fever is over 103ºF, it warrants immediate medical attention.

Anemia
Experiencing frequent bleeding can drop the red blood cell count, causing anemia. This may lead to symptoms such as fatigue, pale skin, problems concentrating, chest pain, and even shortness of breath. It is advisable to get blood levels checked every 6 to 12 months.

The condition can also cause less-common symptoms such as constipation. Inflammation in the GI tract can also lead to eye inflammation, joint pain, joint swelling, mouth swelling, and skin rashes. Other rare early signs of ulcerative colitis also include liver disorders or jaundice. Women with ulcerative colitis may also experience irregular periods, increased menstrual pain, a higher risk of osteoporosis, and rectovaginal fistulas—holes that allow the leakage of stool into the vagina.

Symptoms by type
Depending on the portion of the colon and rectum affected, UC can be categorized into five distinct types:

Ulcerative proctitis: This only affects the rectum and may be identified by symptoms such as rectal bleeding, rectal pain, and an inability to pass stool despite the urge to. It is often the mildest form of UC.

Proctosigmoiditis: This condition affects the lower portion of the colon and the rectum and may cause symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, abdominal pain, and a constant urge to pass stool.

Left-sided colitis: This affects the left side of the sigmoid and the descending colon, causing symptoms such as bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramping on the left side.

Pancolitis: Pancolitis affects the entire colon and may cause symptoms such as occasionally severe, bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps, and fatigue.

Fulminant colitis: This is a rare and severe form of UC that affects the entire colon. It may lead to severe pain, diarrhea, dehydration, and shock. It may also cause complications such as colon rupture and toxic megacolon.

Complications of a flare-up
During a UC flare, one may experience a higher risk of developing the following complications:

Toxic megacolon (expansion of the colon): Toxic megacolon occurs when the inflammation in the GI tract causes it to expand, dilate, or distend. This interferes with the process of waste removal (gas or feces) from the body. The build-up of fecal matter in the body can cause the large intestine to rupture, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of this condition may appear suddenly and usually include abdominal pain, bloating, abdominal tenderness, fever, rapid heart rate, shock, bloody or profuse diarrhea, and painful bowel movements.

Severe bleeding: During a flare, the lining of the rectum or the colon could experience bleeding due to the formation of ulcers in the large intestine or rectum. Anti-inflammatory treatment options can help stop this bleeding. However, in cases of severe bleeding (hemorrhaging), doctors may recommend surgery to remove the colon and create an opening in the body connected to the digestive system, allowing the removal of waste and fecal matter. This is also known as an ileostomy or a stoma.

Dehydration: Persistent diarrhea can cause dehydration, which occurs when the body loses water faster than it can be replaced. Some signs of mild to moderate dehydration include fatigue, dry mouth, increased thirst, decreased urination, reduced tear production, dry skin, dizziness, lightheadedness, and headaches. Severe dehydration can be a medical emergency. Some symptoms include excessive thirst, lack of sweat production, low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, sunken eyes, shriveled skin, and dark urine.

Increased risk of blood clots: A blood clot is a clump of blood that has turned semi-solid that can appear anywhere in the body. Clots that form in the veins may not dissolve on their own and can be severe. Depending on their location, they may exhibit different signs. People with inflammatory bowel disease have a three times higher risk of experiencing a pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis, leading to clots in the abdomen. Here, one may experience severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloody stools, diarrhea, bloating or swelling in the abdomen, and abdominal fluid accumulation (ascites).

UC is diagnosed using a combination of blood tests, stool samples, imaging tests, and endoscopic tests. Doctors then recommend a combination of treatments and lifestyle changes to manage the condition. While there is no cure for UC yet, the goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and the risk of flares to improve quality of life. One should also make changes to eating habits, such as drinking plenty of fluids; eating smaller and more regular meals; avoiding caffeine, sodas, and ultra-processed foods; choosing low-fiber, low-fat, low-salt, and lactose-free foods.

Previous Read

Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It's an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It's rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease. Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers. You can eat them raw with a dip, mix them into your salad, or enjoy them as an appetizer. Some people also like roasting bell peppers and using them as a topping for lettuce salads or sandwiches. Olive oil It contains healthy fat and has anti-inflammatory properties. Since it is monosaturated fat, it stays stable even at higher temperatures as you cook. Thus, switching to extra virgin olive oil can give you more antioxidants while you still enjoy your favorite dish. Green vegetables Leafy veggies like spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, and cabbage are hydrating, low in calories, and have high antioxidant and vitamin content. If you wish to be cautious about your mineral levels, you must opt for cabbage and arugula, which are nutrient-rich and lower in sodium, potassium, phosphorous, and calcium. In addition, kale and spinach have a high potassium content, which is ok for people seeking to improve their kidney health, but best for those already dealing with chronic kidney disease. Blueberries They are called superfoods because they are rich in antioxidants and are a low-calorie Vitamin-C and fiber source. You can stock them in abundance from your local grocery store or farmer’s market. You can also shop for frozen berries in the off-season and enjoy healthy smoothies. People with kidney diseases can also eat other berries like raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries. Apples Apples are low in potassium and rich in fiber when you eat them with peel. They also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and are ideal for your kidneys. Foods to avoid Soda Soda has zero nutritional benefits and instead has high sugar content. It only adds to the extra calories. Some studies link high soda consumption to conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, dental problems, and metabolic syndrome. If you opt for their lower calorie alternative like coke zero, even that will do you no good, as it has no nutritional value and contains artificial sweeteners and additives. Hence, you must omit soda and opt for healthy beverages like water. If you do not enjoy plain water, add a slice or two of fresh fruit for added flavor. Avocados Avocadoes are known for their many nutritious qualities. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Even though consuming avocado is often considered healthy, people with kidney disease must avoid it as avocados have a high potassium content. An average-sized avocado has about 690 mg of potassium. If you love the taste and do not want to eliminate it, you can reduce the portion size to only 1/4th of the avocado. In addition, it will lower potassium intake.  Salty foods Sodium or salt is one of the most prevalent inclusions in foods you consume daily. However, their density is higher in processed foods. Salt results in water retention and may cause blood pressure, lung, and heart disease. Healthy kidneys work towards maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body. So, if your kidneys do not function as desired, the fluid balance may be disturbed. Hence, you must curtail sodium-rich foods like processed foods, packaged items, and soy sauce. When cooking meals at home, opt for low-sodium alternatives. You can replace salt with spices and herbs and keep the salt shaker off the table. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and milk are rich in protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. They also contain potassium and phosphorous. People with stage three kidney disease might want to curtail their potassium, phosphorous, and protein intake, which is high in dairy. So, you can instead reach out for dairy alternatives like rice, soy, or almond milk as they have lower potassium, phosphorous, and protein content than cow’s milk. Bananas Though naturally low in sodium, bananas' potassium content is significantly high. So, to ensure your kidney disease does not aggravate, monitor your potassium intake, and it might be challenging if the banana is your staple. Conclusion Whatever you eat or drink will affect your health regardless of any health issue. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced meal plan are prerequisites to staying fit and controlling blood sugar levels. A kidney-healthy meal plan is less about eliminating certain foods but following portion control and finding a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

Next Read

Causes and symptoms of atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart rhythm disorder affecting millions worldwide. Understanding the causes and early signs of AFib is crucial for timely detection, intervention, and effective management. The subtle yet vital signs that indicate its presence can be mistaken as nothing serious or a symptom of some other health condition. By unraveling the mysteries behind AFib, it is essential to empower oneself with the knowledge that can lead to proactive heart health management and improved quality of life. Causes of atrial fibrillation Age As one grows old, the risk of developing atrial fibrillation increases. The wear and tear on the heart's electrical system over time can disrupt its normal rhythm and lead to AFib. Additionally, age-related conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and underlying structural abnormalities can further predispose individuals to AFib. High blood pressure Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant risk factor for atrial fibrillation. Persistent elevation in blood pressure can damage the heart's electrical system and promote irregular heartbeats. Managing and controlling blood pressure through lifestyle modifications and appropriate healthcare interventions is crucial in reducing the risk of developing AFib. Heart conditions and diseases Various heart conditions and diseases can contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation. These include coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, congenital heart defects, heart failure, and a history of heart surgery. Structural abnormalities or damage to the heart's tissues can disrupt its electrical signals, leading to AFib. Sleep apnea Sleep apnea, a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, is strongly linked to atrial fibrillation. The intermittent lack of oxygen during apnea episodes can trigger irregular heart rhythms. Treating sleep apnea with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy can help reduce the risk of AFib. Chronic lung diseases Individuals with chronic lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, have an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation. The impaired lung function and associated inflammation can contribute to AFib. Proper management of lung diseases is crucial in minimizing the risk of AFib. Early signs of atrial fibrillation Heart palpitations One of the most common early signs of atrial fibrillation is a sensation of rapid or irregular heartbeats, known as heart palpitations. Individuals may feel as if their heart is fluttering, pounding, or racing in their chest. Pay attention to any unusual sensations and seek evaluation if palpitations persist or worsen. Fatigue and weakness Feeling unusually tired or experiencing persistent fatigue and weakness can be an early indication of atrial fibrillation. The irregular heart rhythm and inadequate blood flow to the body's tissues can lead to reduced energy levels and overall fatigue. If it causes a decline in the patient's stamina and makes it challenging to engage in routine activities, it could be time to seek attention. Shortness of Breath Atrial fibrillation can cause shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, especially during physical exertion or when lying flat. The irregular heart rhythm and compromised blood flow can lead to inadequate oxygen supply, resulting in breathlessness. If a patient experiences persistent episodes of shortness of breath, it is important to get it further evaluated. Chest discomfort Some individuals with atrial fibrillation may experience chest discomfort or a sensation of pressure or tightness in the chest. This discomfort may be intermittent or persistent, ranging from mild to severe. Dizziness and lightheadedness Atrial fibrillation can cause episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness. The irregular heart rhythm and compromised blood flow to the brain can result in feelings of instability or a sensation that the patient might faint. If an individual experiences frequent or recurring episodes of dizziness, it is important to speak to a doctor. Exercise intolerance Individuals with atrial fibrillation may notice a decreased tolerance for physical activity or exercise. The irregular heart rhythm and reduced blood flow can limit their ability to engage in strenuous activities. If an individual finds that they are becoming easily fatigued or unable to maintain the usual exercise routine, it is important to take the necessary steps and get their condition evaluated. Anxiety and restlessness Atrial fibrillation can lead to feelings of anxiety, restlessness, or unease. The irregular heartbeat and associated symptoms can cause emotional distress and contribute to a sense of uneasiness. If patients notice heightened anxiety or feelings of restlessness, it is important to address these concerns. Fainting or loss of consciousness Atrial fibrillation can cause loss of consciousness or fainting in some people. This is also known as syncope. This can be a result of the irregular heart rhythm that compromises the blood being supplied to the brain. If an individual experiences fainting spells or episodes of losing consciousness, it is crucial to seek immediate help. This may indicate a more severe form of AFib or some other underlying cardiac condition. Fluttering sensation in the neck Another symptom observed in individuals with AFib is a fluttering sensation in the neck. Like many other symptoms, this also results from the irregular heartbeats associated with the condition. It can be noticed when palpating the neck or touching it. These signs must be addressed at the earliest. Increased urination This condition can affect fluid balance in the body, leading to increased urine production. Some individuals may notice an increase in the frequency of urination or the volume of urine passed. This symptom may be more pronounced during episodes of AFib or when the heart rate is particularly fast. Cognitive impairment AFib can impact an individual's cognitive functioning. Albeit not a common symptom, it is a recorded symptom of the condition. The reduced blood flow of the patient and the irregular heartbeat can contribute to increasing issues with cognitive functioning. It can cause changes in the individual's concentration, memories, and alertness. If any changes pertaining to the patient's cognitive condition are noticed, it is important to speak to a healthcare provider and determine the cause and management plan. Stroke Atrial fibrillation significantly increases the risk of stroke. Irregular blood flow and blood pooling in the atria can often cause blood clots to form. These blood clots carry the risk of traveling to the brain or blocking its blood flow. Changes in blood flow to the brain and the presence of blood clots increase the risk of an individual having a stroke. Individuals with AFib must work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their condition and minimize the risk of stroke.

Trending Articles

01

All About Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the top causes of vision loss in people aged sixty and older. It is a disease that hampers your sharp, central vision. Central vision is pivotal to helping you see objects clearly and do tasks like driving and reading. AMD impairs your macula, the part of the eye that helps you see fine detail. It is not painful, but it kills the cells in the macula. It starts with blurred vision, but you gradually lose central sight. Seeing crooked lines is one of the initial AMD signs. In this guide, we will discuss everything related to AMD in detail. Types of AMD Dry People with dry AMD have drusen or yellow spots in the macula. Small drusen might not necessarily impair your vision, but as they grow in size and increase in number, they distort and dim your vision, especially as you read. Over time the condition worsens, and the light-sensitive cells in the macula get thinner and die eventually. If it is in the atrophic form, you will experience a blind spot in the center of the vision. Consequently, it worsens, and you lose central sight. Wet Blood vessels grow below the macula.
02

9 Laundry Detergents for Fresh Smelling Clothes

There’s nothing worse than putting on a shirt that smells of body odor or rancid sweat. It’s even more frustrating when you wash it and it still smells terrible. Many people are looking for ways to keep their clothes smelling great without using harsh chemicals. If you’re looking for a laundry detergent that keeps your clothes smelling fresh, we have some suggestions for you. Keep reading to find the perfect laundry detergent for your needs. Method Laundry Detergent With Method Laundry Detergent, you can enjoy your laundry experience while knowing that you’re doing good for the environment. This plant-based detergent uses 66 loads worth of stain-lifting power to clean your clothes, while the fresh air scent of lavender and cypress will leave them smelling great. Moreover, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it. This mild detergent has an effective formula that is both safe for you and the environment, and it is reasonably priced at $14.49 for 53.5 fl oz. Additionally, it comes with various fresh scents to choose from, so you can enjoy clean and fragrant clothes without harsh chemicals. ZUM Frankincense & Myrrh Laundry Detergent This detergent is made with gentle ingredients, sensitive launderers in mind, and a mix of saponified coconut oil and deep-cleansing agents to lift stains and leave your clothes smelling great.
03

Tips to Manage Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition threatening one’s eyesight and general health. In AMD, the macula, the part of the eye that helps produce the most detailed and sharpest vision, starts to break down and thin, resulting in vision loss. It is one of the most prevalent causes of blindness in people aged 60 or older. Though there is no definite cure for AMD, some things can postpone its onset or lower its severity. Being aware of family history Family history and genetics are one of the leading causes of AMD. So, if you have a first-degree relative with AMD, your chances of developing it are also higher. Hence, you must be vigilant and educate yourself on the potential AMD signs, such as the inability to adapt to low light conditions, difficulty identifying faces, and straight lines looking wavy. Knowledge of these symptoms can help you reach out to an ophthalmologist and get timely treatment while AMD is still in an early stage. Getting routine comprehensive medical checkups In the early stages of AMD, you might not experience any symptoms. Hence, routine comprehensive eye exams with an ophthalmologist can help with timely diagnosis and treatment. It holds even for adults 40 or older with no risk factors or signs because this is when you may develop early AMD symptoms or experience changes in vision.
04

Foods to Eat and Avoid After Dental Implants

Dental implants are a major surgical procedure. Hence, you must take the necessary post-operative measures to ensure a speedy recovery. One of the first things you will feel after the surgery is hunger, as dental implants demand abstaining from food for six hours since the procedure temporarily impacts your chewing ability. So, you must adhere to selective foods and avoid some, especially for two weeks. Therefore, here’s a list of foods to eat and avoid: Foods to eat Smoothies In the initial days post-surgery, you may be unable to chew your favorite food. So, the next best thing is drinking it as a smoothie. Smoothies are wholesome and tasty meals. You can make them with whatever vegetable or fruits you like, ensuring they have a high nutritional value and are rich in vitamins. Muffins You might be unable to eat the muffins on the first or the second-day post-surgery, but after the initial few days, you can easily enjoy a good muffin. They are easy to chew and are very delicious. Hence, they can be an incredible snack or breakfast option following dental implant surgery. Potatoes They are versatile and soft. You can prepare them in different ways. So, even if you eat the same ingredient, you will not get bored.

Our Blogs

Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is characterized by an irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia in the atria or the heart’s upper two chambers. It causes a disturbance in the typical cycle of the electrical impulses in the heart. The condition results in a rapid and chaotic heart rhythm and poor blood movement from the upper chambers to the ventricles or the lower chambers. Below, we address the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management of AFib. Causes AFib, or a change in the electrical signals in the heart, can affect anyone, regardless of age. But it is more prevalent in older people. A few risk factors that amplify the condition’s susceptibility are: Heart diseases People with an underlying heart condition, like a heart attack, coronary artery disease, and heart failure, have a greater risk of AFib. Hypertension If left unchecked, high blood pressure can strain the heart and aggravate the risk of this disorder. Familial link People with a family history of AFib have a greater chance of suffering from the condition. Sleep apnea This sleep disorder can also increase a person’s susceptibility to AFib, especially if it is severe. Besides the above, other chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, and thyroid also put a person at risk of this heart problem.
Read More
13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

If you are one of the millions affected by macular degeneration, you must know that this degenerative eye disease can make everyday activities difficult. Even something as simple as reading a book or watching TV can be challenging. For example, you can do a few things to stay comfortably at home with low vision. In this article, we will share 13 tips on making a low-vision-friendly home to make everyday living easier. What is macular degeneration? It is a condition that impacts the macula, which is the central part of the retina, and occurs when the macula deteriorates or breaks down. Macular degeneration symptoms Symptoms of macular degeneration include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty reading or seeing fine details, and a change in color perception. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see an eye doctor for a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Why does a low-vision-friendly home play a crucial part in patients with macular degeneration? A low-vision-friendly home design helps people with macular degeneration live as independently as possible while still enjoying their surroundings. In addition, it can provide them with a safe and functional environment to improve their contrast and visibility. Helpful tips for a low-vision friendly home Use bright and contrasting colors Using bright colors can help make objects more visible and easier to see.
Read More
Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular degeneration is a progressive disease that destroys the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine details. It can make activities like reading, writing, and driving difficult or impossible. The disease typically occurs in older adults and can lead to blindness. While macular degeneration can be managed in its early stages, it has no cure. This article discusses the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatments of macular degeneration. What is macular degeneration? Macular degeneration is a disease of the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. The former develops when the macula dries out and loses its function. Wet macular degeneration is a result of new blood vessels under the retina leaking fluid or blood, causing vision loss. Symptoms of macular degeneration The symptoms of macular degeneration can develop differently in individuals, but here are the typical signs one must note. One of the main symptoms is a gradual loss of central vision, which can progress over time and may not be noticeable at first. Additional symptoms are difficulty reading small print or close-up objects, trouble seeing in dim light or when looking up from a low angle, problems with depth perception and peripheral vision, and poor night vision.
Read More
What is Eczema and How to Treat It

What is Eczema and How to Treat It

Eczema is a chronic skin disease characterized by dry, red, and itchy skin. It typically appears around the arms, elbows, and knees; however, it can show up anywhere. As the condition can flare up due to various triggers, it is vital to understand its nature and how to treat it. This article provides a guide to everything one needs to know about eczema, from its causes and symptoms to treatment options and helpful management tips. What is eczema? Eczema is a skin condition that can be both painful and itchy. It can also be embarrassing, as it often appears as a rash on the face, hands, or other visible areas of the body. Because eczema weakens your skin’s barrier, you’re also more susceptible to infection. Is eczema contagious? There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that eczema is contagious. There are some reports of people with eczema who have also had close family members with it, but these cases are rare and not always linked. Something in the person’s environment (such as dust mites or other allergens) may trigger the condition in someone who has never had it before. Symptoms of eczema Eczema is a skin condition that can be extremely frustrating for those who suffer from it.
Read More
Nasal Polyps – Symptoms, Triggers, and Management

Nasal Polyps – Symptoms, Triggers, and Management

Nasal Polyps are a significantly underrated problem. Most people only experience minor symptoms, so the polyps are often left untreated until they cause more problems. This article will look at the triggers, symptoms, and management of nasal polyps in more detail. We will start by looking at nasal polyps and what causes them. Finally, we will look at the best ways to treat nasal polyps to ensure that one gets rid of them quickly and safely. What are nasal polyps? Nasal polyps are benign growths on the nasal septum, the cartilage that separates one’s nose from the throat. They’re usually harmless but can cause problems if they block the nasal airway or make breathing difficult. Symptoms of nasal polyps Following are some symptoms of nasal polyps: Headaches Nasal polyps may cause headaches due to their enlarged blood vessels in the skull. The pressure from these enlarged vessels may cause pain behind one’s eyes or along the temples. Snoring Snoring is often caused by an obstruction of airflow through the nose during sleep. This obstruction causes the throat to vibrate, producing a noise known as snoring. Nasal congestion When mucus accumulates in the nose due to blocked airflow, it can cause nasal congestion and an unpleasant smell called rhinorrhea (a discharge from the nose).
Read More
10 Effective Tips for Managing Ulcerative Colitis

10 Effective Tips for Managing Ulcerative Colitis

Chronic inflammation of the large intestine, or ulcerative colitis , is a devastating and exhausting disease that can wreak havoc on every aspect of one’s life. From physical health to mental well-being, ulcerative colitis can take a toll on overall health if left untreated. Here are simple ways to manage ulcerative colitis. By following them under a doctor’s supervision, you can take back control of life and manage the condition better. What is ulcerative colitis? Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. UC acts on the innermost walls of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is a chronic condition that can last for months or even years. Types of ulcerative colitis Ulcerative proctitis is the most common type and accounts for about two-thirds of all UC cases. People with this type have frequent episodes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Ulcers may form in the rectum or anus. Proctosigmoiditis is less common than ulcerative proctitis but affects more people overall because it causes more severe symptoms, such as bloody diarrhea that may lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Extensive colitis/pancolitis occurs when inflammation spreads beyond the rectum or anus to other parts of the gastrointestinal tract (large intestine and small intestine).
Read More