Experiencing these 12 peculiarities signals a potential understanding of living with ulcerative colitis:

Experiencing these 12 peculiarities signals a potential understanding of living with ulcerative colitis:

Living with ulcerative colitis (UC) is a lifelong, grueling ordeal that takes a toll on multiple aspects of your life. Here's what you might encounter if you find yourself down this unfortunate path:

1. Your bowel troubles may overshadow everything, from days at the park to quiet evenings at home. Extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, diarrhea and abdominal pain can make day-to-day activities feel like a chore.
2. Speaking out about your condition can feel like a minefield, as bowel-related issues are society's dirty little secrets. Fellow UC sufferer Louise Thompson bravely shared her experience of going under the knife for a stoma bag, reminding us that it's essential to have open conversations about UC.
3. People may try to sell you quick fixes, promising miracle cures for your condition. But let's stop the nonsense – there's no magic potion for UC. While treatments may help manage symptoms, a cure remains elusive.
4. Navigating toilet-related topics becomes second nature. You'll be chatting about bowel habits with doctors more than you ever thought possible, making you ruthlessly honest about your bodily functions.
5. What's appropriate becomes blurred. It's easy to forget what's considered off-limits when talking about bowel habits becomes so routine. Expect some awkward dinner party moments.
6. Tiredness is your new constant companion, and.iron, zinc, and B12 supplements become daily necessities to combat fatigue.
7. Planning days out is a logistical nightmare. The proximity of restrooms is now your top priority when organizing activities, and spontaneity often goes out the window.
8. Plain and simple, the words "colon" and "rectum" lose their taboo.
9. People have a tendency to compare UC to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). But these conditions are vastly different, with UC being much more severe and potentially life-threatening. So, stop comparing!

What is UC?

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that cause inflammation and ulceration of the inner lining of the rectum and colon. This may result in abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, excessive gas, and extreme fatigue.

Living with UC

UC affects approximately one in every 420 people in the UK[2]. Weight loss due to decreased appetite or poor nutrient absorption can quickly become noticeable, but pity-filled compliments about your appearance ring hollow during moments of ill health.

1. The internet becomes your lifeline in a world that sometimes feels isolating and uncaring. Internet support groups provide camaraderie, advice, and a shoulder to lean on when you need it most.
2. Finding out who your true friends are is one of the many unexpected perks. As time goes on, those that stick by you during your darkest hours will show their true colors.
3. Don't hesitate to share your story. Your experience matters, and speaking out can help raise awareness and reduce the stigma around UC.

[1] Mayo Clinic. Ulcerative colitis: Symptoms to watch for and when to seek help. Accessed November 20, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ulcerative-colitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20365662

[2] Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. What's the difference between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease? Accessed November 20, 2022. https://califia.im/uiMapNew/1VpSDKt2lxmmgs3Pw_StlYA33Lpo78XpzKADBarTQF-MCZUmRVUZaSFohIbCR6bATUgUQXI0_LmugY3_5ZG8J2UYDjVfsUJw5G6X7CjwrA

[3] Cleveland Clinic. Ulcerative Colitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis. Accessed November 20, 2022. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17237-ulcerative-colitis-causes-symptoms

[4] NHS. Ulcerative colitis. Accessed November 20, 2022. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ulcerative-colitis/

[5] Verywell Health. Ulcerative colitis: symptoms, causes, and treatment. Accessed November 20, 2022. https://www.verywellhealth.com/ulcerative-colitis-959547

1. Science continues to search for better therapies and treatments for UC, with a focus on addressing the underlying causes rather than merely managing symptoms.
2. Living with UC can affect your workplace wellness and productivity, prompting some employers to offer support and accommodations for those dealing with chronic diseases.
3. A diet rich in nutrients, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, can help manage symptoms and facilitate healing in the digestive system.
4. Weight management is crucial for those with UC, as both weight gain and weight loss can influence the severity of symptoms and overall health.
5. Chronic kidney disease and type-2 diabetes are common associated conditions for UC patients, making regular medical check-ups essential.
6. UC can impact eye-health, with an increased risk of developing conditions like uveitis, iritis, and episcleritis.
7. Mental health is often overlooked when discussing UC, but depression and anxiety are common in people living with ulcerative colitis.
8. Skin care becomes an important aspect of self-management, as UC can increase the risk of developing skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
9. Regular exercise, such as tai chi, yoga, or swimming, can help improve fitness and exercise levels and reduce stress, contributing to overall well-being for UC patients.
10. Balancing the cardiovascular health aspects of fitness with managing weight and diet is essential for those dealing with UC, as the disease itself can put one at a higher risk of heart disease.

In addition, education and self-development, personal growth, and career development can all be influenced by living with ulcerative colitis. Goal-setting and skills training might become crucial tools for navigating life's challenges. Sports, such as football, soccer, and various league competitions, can provide entertainment and inspiration for those living with UC, offering a reminder that even in the face of adversity, champions can rise.

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