Helpful Links
Revolution Health - Rate
treatments for IBD
MedicineNet - UC Info
Mayo Clinic - UC Info
Colitis Foundation - IBD info and forum
HealingWell - IBD info and forum
IBD Pages - IBD links and IBD Sucks! forum
WebMD - Information about most illnesses and medications
Breaking the Vicious Cycle -
Specific Carbohydrate Diet by Elaine Gottschall
SCD Recipe - SCD recipe site
SCD Web Library - SCD recipe site
Glossary
Medical:
Flexible sigmoidoscope -
preliminary colon scanning tool that doesn't require you to be sedated or drink a gallon of
laxative. However, it doesn't give the doctor a complete view of the entire colon.
Barium enema -
procedure involving a liquid barium enema so the colon can be easily seen in an x-ray.
Gastroenterologist -
doctor specializing in intestinal disorders including ulcerative colitis. If you suspect any
form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), please see a board-certified gastroenterologist.
Colonoscopy -
thorough colon scanning tool that gives the doctor a complete view of the entire colon. It
does require sedation and drinking lots of laxative prior to the procedure. (Drinking the
laxative is much worse than the actual procedure. However, some doctors require less drinking
than others.)
Surgery - removal of colon and
rectum (called proctocolectomy or ileostomy) is the only way to permanently "cure" UC.
An opening, called a stoma or ostomy, is made on the lower abdomen where the small intestine
will deposit waste into a bag that must be emptied several times a day. An alternative procedure
is called a J-pouch (ileoanal reservoir) where the small intestine is connected directly
to the rectum. With the pouch a person does not have a bag to empty, but goes to the
restroom 6-8 times daily.
Medications:
Prednisone -
steroid anti-inflammatory which usually prevents the colon from attacking itself,
thereby reducing inflammation. Given for many ailments, including asthma and arthritis.
However, there are numerous side effects, including increased appetite, weight gain,
round face, bone loss, glaucoma, cataracts, increase risk of infection, acne,
nervousness, and swelling of feet. Many doctors suggest only using Prednisone for
a short period of time. Taking a calcium supplement while on Prednisone might be a good idea.
Sulfasalazine -
also known as Azulfidine. Assists in healing by working directly in the colon.
Also used to maintain remission. Part of a group of drugs called 5ASA. The "sulfa"
portion of the drug can have side effects such as headache, nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting,
rash, fever, and decreased white blood cell count. Taking folic acid supplements while on
sulfasalazine might be a good idea. Not prescribed much anymore because other 5ASA drugs offer
the same benefits without sulfa.
Asacol -
also known as Mesalamine. Assists in healing by working directly in the colon
without steroids. Also used to maintain remission. Part of a group of drugs called
5ASA. Side effects are usually mild but may include stomach pain and cramps, diarrhea, gas,
nausea, headache, and dizziness.
Colazal -
Assists in healing by working directly in the colon without steroids. Also used to maintain
remission. Part of a group of drugs called 5ASA. Side effects are usually mild but may include
headache, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Imuran -
also known as Azathioprine. A steroid-sparing immunosuppressant which prevents the
colon from attacking itself, thereby reducing inflammation. Used to be given to patients
with organ transplants as an anti-rejection drug. Part of a group of drugs called
6-MP. Side effects are generally milder than Prednisone, and therefore you are
allowed to remain on Imuran for longer periods. It may take weeks before you notice
any benefit after starting Imuran. Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
stomach ulcers, rash, malaise, and liver inflammation. You should get regular blood tests
(CBC) to check for liver problems.
Flagyl -
also known as Metronidazole. Used to kill bacteria in the intestines. Absolutely
do not drink alcohol when on Flagyl.
Cortisone enemas -
typical enemas containing liquid cortisone. Usually used before bedtime and should
be retained throughout the night. Gives comfort directly to the lower part of the colon.
Alternative Therapies:
Cat's Claw -
also called Una de Gato. Alternative therapy said to aid in digestive disorders.
Glutamine -
alternative therapy said to aid in digestive disorders.
EPA (Omega-3 fish oil) -
alternative therapy said to aid in digestive disorders, lower cholesterol, and help the heart.
Nicotine patch -
alternative therapy said to aid in digestive disorders without the harmful effects of smoking.
Probiotics -
good bacteria found in yogurt said to aid in digestive disorders.
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