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    Stay Hydrated

    When you have ulcerative colitis, your large intestine can have a hard time absorbing water and salt. That can make you dehydrated. So can diarrhea, which is common with UC flares. Set a goal to drink enough water and other liquids so you're not thirsty. An electrolyte-replacement drink may help if you have diarrhea. If you're dizzy, weak, or haven't gone to the bathroom in 12 hours, see your doctor right away.

    Soothe Skin Irritation and Pain

    Bouts of diarrhea often can bother your skin. Use moist towelettes for wiping. Follow up with an ointment, such as a vitamin A and D cream. Need more relief? Soak in a salt water bath, which may ease soreness. Try acetaminophen for pain, but avoid NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen. They can trigger flares and cause other problems.

    Eat Easy-to-Digest Foods


    Plan Ahead, Locate Bathrooms


    Tell Your Doctor

    A flare may mean it’s time to switch your medication or dose. Your doctor may prescribe suppositories and enemas. Some drugs, like corticosteroids and “5-ASAs,” can quickly get your UC inflammation under control. For day-to-day care, you might take 5-ASAs and meds that curb your immune system, such as azathioprine or 6-MP. Some doctors also prescribe “biologic” drugs for UC that’s more than mild.  

    Make Medications Easier to Take

    If it’s hard for you to take pills, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. The pharmacy might be able to make your medicine in liquid form. If your drugs come in capsules, ask if it's safe to open them and mix the medicine with apple sauce, peanut butter, or other foods.

    Meds for Diarrhea

    Have diarrhea from a mild flare? These medications may help. They're available over the counter -- such as bismuth subsalicylate or loperamide -- or by prescription. Talk to your doctor first. And don't take them if you have a fever or see blood in your stool. That could cause serious problems.

    Seek Support


    Give Yourself Some TLC

    Stress doesn't cause UC, but it makes symptoms and flares worse for some people. If it affects you, try meditation, breathing exercises, or a massage. You could also see a pro to try biofeedback, hypnotherapy, or a type of counseling called cognitive behavioral therapy (which helps you learn new ways to handle problems). Being active helps, too. Try yoga, tai chi, or other low-impact exercises like walking.

    Keep Up With Your Medicine

    Don't double up on doses of medication if you’re flaring. Although you really want relief, a change in your treatment can trigger flares or make them worse. Take medicines only as directed. The same goes for when you feel good and may be tempted to skip doses, too.

    Tap Into 'Good' Bacteria

    Antibiotics can trigger flares. If your ulcerative colitis gets worse while you take them, tell your doctor. Some scientists think antibiotics may cause issues because they kill helpful bacteria in your gut that aid digestion. You could try probiotics, or "good" bacteria. They are in yogurts (look for “live, active cultures” on the label) or, if you're lactose intolerant, in supplements.

    Warning Signs


    • A fever over 101 F
    • No bowel movements
    • Severe belly pain
    • Pus drainage when you go to the bathroom
    • Constant diarrhea


    Cut Down on Drinking

    Alcohol and your UC flares could be linked. Although you don’t have to become a teetotaler, you may want to skip it when you're flaring. It can aggravate inflammation and ulcers. So limit beer, wine, and liquor and see if that helps. If you’re out with friends, maybe order some coffee (decaf, if caffeine bothers you), instead.

    Walk It Off
