Until then, we’ve rounded up some of the most common symptoms you might be experiencing, along with doctor-recommended tips for finding relief.
Symptom No. 1: Abdominal Cramps
Solution: Try to pinpoint your triggers. Stomach cramps are often caused by gas or spasms in the gut. Common culprits include foods high in fiber or fat, which can impact gas production, says Byron Vaughn, MD, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis and director of their inflammatory bowel disease program. Foods that are high in insoluble fiber — especially cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower — can be particularly hard to digest, according to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Medications, such as a recent course of antibiotics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) — ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin — can also trigger abdominal pain, he says.
Symptom No. 2: Rectal Bleeding
Solution: Stay calm. It probably looks worse than it actually is. If hemorrhoids are the cause, the bleeding will be minimal and can be treated with sitz baths, soluble fiber supplements, or medication, such as steroid suppositories, Dr. Vaughn says. If it’s caused by an uptick in inflammation, though, you and your doctor may need to adjust your treatment plan. Until you figure out what’s behind your bleeding, consider wearing a sanitary pad or incontinence underwear.
Symptom No. 3: Irregular Periods
Solution: Treating your ulcerative colitis will often help correct an irregular menstrual cycle. Active colitis and anemia, for example, could lead to irregular periods, he says. Stress can also throw off your cycle. Dr. Vaughn recommends talking with your gynecologist first to make sure there aren’t any underlying issues.
Symptom No. 4: Nausea
Solution: Inflammation or irritation to the gut can cause nausea, Dr. Vaughn says. If you’re feeling nauseous, try taking an over-the-counter antacid or consuming foods or drinks with ginger in them. Peppermint and mint may also ease nausea, adds Vaughn. If you’re having nausea and are throwing up, ask your doctor if you should start a oneday liquid diet to prevent dehydration. If your case is severe, ask your doctor about taking prescription medication.
Symptom No. 5: Sudden Diarrhea
Solution: In a pinch, use an over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication,such as those containing imodium. To reduce diarrhea over the long term, try eating more gut-soothing foods — rice, bananas, toast — and avoiding some of the tougher-to-digest fruit and vegetable skins, Vaughn says. If you’re in public, make sure you know the locations of nearby bathrooms. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation recommends drawing up a map ahead of time and packing a personal hygiene kit that includes toilet paper, wipes, ointment, and extra underwear or clothes.
Symptom No. 6: Flatulence
Solution: Reevaluate what you eat. Although gas is normal, it can also be bothersome and is often directly caused by diet, says Vaughn. Try cutting out gas-producing foods such as beans and broccoli, he says. Another tip: Take an over-the-counter gas-reducing product before or after meals.
Symptom No. 7: Constipation
Solution: Luckily, constipation isn’t very common, but it can cause cramping, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and fewer than three bowel movements a week, according to the American Gastroenterological Association. Try drinking more fluids, adding dried fruit, such as prunes, to your diet, staying physically active, or using suppositories — if your doctor signs off on them. You can also ask your provider if adjusting your medication or diet could help relieve your symptoms.
