A flare-up is the return or worsening of your symptoms. With inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), like ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn’s disease, specific symptoms will depend on which condition you have and the part of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract that’s inflamed. This inflammation can lead to a symptom flare-up.
Ulcerative colitis is chronic—over time, your symptoms can change, or get worse. When you’re experiencing a flare-up, it’s necessary to talk to your doctor; be precise about any differences in your symptoms or changes to your condition over time.
How much of your time is your UC impacting? Find out and make a personal action plan
These are possible factors that could worsen symptoms and influence a flare:
You can’t always prevent flares, but you can be proactive about your health.
1
Always take your treatment as prescribed
2
See your doctor regularly—and have open conversations about your symptoms
3
Monitor and track your UC
4
Keep up with UC-related tests and procedures
5
Set up your support system
6
Keep up with UC-related tests and procedures
7
Exercise regularly
8
Don't smoke
9
Bring down your stress levels
Taking my medicine consistently helps me stay in remission and reduces the chances of any long–term issues.