Colitis, also called ulcerative colitis, is a chronic illness that causes inflammation, or swelling, in areas of the digestive tract. Potential mild symptoms include occasional or mild diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy and joint pain. Treatment for colitis aims to control the inflammation, reduce symptoms and replace any lost fluids and nutrients. Since medical treatment may be necessary, a doctor's guidance is important once symptoms arise.
Types
Mild symptoms of colitis vary. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain are the most common symptoms. Additional symptoms that may cause only mild implications include tiredness, physical weakness, reduced appetite, weight loss and joint pain.
Prevalence
Mild symptoms affect many, but not all, colitis sufferers. According to the NDDIC, roughly half of those diagnosed with the condition experience mild symptoms. In some cases, mild symptoms appear occasionally, between long bouts of remission. Colitis is most common between ages 15 and 30 and tends to run in families. Caucasians and those of Jewish descent develop colitis more frequently than other segments of the population, and the illness affects men and women equally.
Treatment
Treatment for mild colitis symptoms varies among individuals and depends upon severity, symptom type and medical history. According to the Mayo Clinic, the goal of colitis treatment is to reduce the inflammation that triggers symptoms. Treatment options include over-the-counter and prescription anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, dietary supplements and lifestyle measures, such as stress reduction and a healthy diet limited in foods and beverages known to trigger symptoms.
Dietary Guidelines
In many cases, dietary measures can help prevent or manage mild colitis symptoms. The Mayo Clinic suggests limiting dairy products if lactose intolerance--the inability to properly digest sugars in cow's milk--is present. High-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, are important to overall health; however, people experiencing diarrhea may find limiting such foods useful until symptoms subside. Avoiding common trigger foods and beverages, such as coffee, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, greasy foods, popcorn, cruciferous vegetables and beans, may help prevent symptoms. Staying hydrated and eating small, frequent meals rather than one or two large meals daily may also help manage colitis symptoms.
Additional Suggestions
Awareness of foods, beverages and lifestyle factors, such as stress, that contribute to colitis symptoms can support management of symptoms. The Mayo Clinic recommends regular, doctor-approved exercise as a means of reducing symptoms and alleviating depressed moods associated with colitis. Breathing exercises, psychological counseling and close contact with medical professionals can also support emotional and physical well-being. To avoid adverse side effects, a doctor's guidance is important prior to use of dietary supplements.
