Table of Contents:
- Understanding the Link Between Colitis and Stomach Cramps
- What Do Ulcerative Colitis Cramps Feel Like vs. IBS?
- How to Relieve Ulcerative Colitis Stomach Pain?
- When to Seek Medical Help?
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the rectum and colon. Abdominal cramping often accompanies pain in these inflamed areas, with spasms that typically worsen during flare-ups, after eating certain foods, or following specific activities.
Understanding the Link Between Colitis and Stomach Cramps
Inflammation in ulcerative colitis puts pressure on the muscles and nerves and triggers an immune response that releases chemicals, further affecting these tissues. This combination leads to spasms in the digestive tract. As food passes through the digestive system, irritation can intensify these spasms, especially with high-fiber foods that are harder to digest. Stress can also provoke or worsen abdominal cramps by releasing neurotransmitters that impact the nerves connecting the brain and abdomen.
What Do Ulcerative Colitis Cramps Feel Like vs. IBS?
IBS cramps arise from mild intestinal sensations that the brain misinterprets as pain, even though there is no physical damage to the digestive tract. These cramps typically occur right before and during bowel movements and are often accompanied by abdominal tenderness.
In ulcerative colitis, cramps can affect both the rectum and intestines, depending on the inflamed areas. These cramps often come with pain, though at times they present as a persistent, uncomfortable sensation without pain. The ulcers, however, can cause intense pain, significantly impacting the patient’s physical and mental well-being.
Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are both forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn’s disease typically affects the small intestine, though it can occur anywhere along the digestive tract, from mouth to anus. This often leads to cramps on the lower right side of the abdomen, especially after eating. In contrast, ulcerative colitis affects the rectum and colon, resulting in cramps that are usually felt on the lower left side and often occur right before bowel movements.
How to Relieve Ulcerative Colitis Stomach Pain (Relief Methods)
Dietary Adjustments: Many patients find that certain foods aggravate their symptoms. A low-FODMAP diet may help identify these triggers. Generally, avoiding dairy, fatty foods, high-fiber foods, and alcoholic or caffeinated drinks can lessen digestive strain. Eating smaller meals and staying hydrated also support digestion.
Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management often helps relieve ulcerative colitis pain. Practices like yoga, meditation, or a simple walk can significantly ease symptoms. Supplements containing ashwagandha or chamomile may further reduce stress-induced pain. Click here for a supplement called Exhale that contains both.
Complementary Therapies: Acupuncture and moxibustion (heat therapy) can help reduce both inflammation and pain.
Natural Supplements: Curcumin and qing dai have anti-inflammatory properties, supporting immune balance and strengthening the intestinal barrier. Click here for a supplement called Cura that contains curcumin, and here for QD1, which contains qing dai. You can also try the CurQD protocol, which includes both; click here to learn more.
Medications (for severe pains): Over-the-counter pain medications can offer some relief, but it’s best to avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen, as they can worsen ulcerative colitis symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medications may help ease the pain, and immunomodulators can be prescribed to prevent the immune system from triggering inflammation. JAK inhibitors may also be used to block janus kinase enzymes involved in the inflammatory process.
When to Seek Medical Help?
Seek immediate medical attention if cramps are severely painful, if you experience repeated vomiting, frequent bloody stools, signs of dehydration, fever, dizziness, lightheadedness, chills, or shaking. These exaggerated symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying issue, making it essential to get evaluated promptly.
Eliana Oberman
