Discharge Instructions for Ulcerative Colitis

You have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is inflammation (irritation and swelling) that happens in the rectum and colon. It is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). No one knows what causes IBD, but the symptoms can be treated. People with IBD can lead full, active lives.

Home care

Recommendations for home care include the following:

• Follow the diet that was prescribed for you in the hospital:

  • Avoid any foods that make your symptoms worse. These foods vary from person to person.

  • Keep a diary of foods that disagree with you and share this information with your healthcare provider or nutritionist.

• Take your medicines as directed. The healthcare provider may ask you to take several different types.

• Talk to your healthcare provider about the need for surgery. Some patients need to have their colon removed. This treatment has side effects. Only you and your healthcare provider can make this decision.

Follow-up care

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff. Call your healthcare provider if you have any questions about your ulcerative colitis or your medicines.