Ulcerative colitis and Yoga

Ulcerative colitis is also known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is considered as chronic condition and causes Inflammation in digestive tract. Colitis represents inflammation of colon. it is auto immune disorder causes mucosal inflammation in any part/segment of colon and may extend to rectum.

The main symptoms of ulcerative colitis are abdominal pain, blood in stools and diarrhea, urge to urinate and defecate, unformed stools, mucosal discharge, irregular motions, tiredness, fatigue etcetera.

The common risk factors for ulcerative colitis are taking some drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives.

Complications of ulcerative colitis are perforated colon, osteoporosis due to lack of absorption, increased risk of getting colon cancer etcetera.

Yoga therapy for Ulcerative colitis:

Yoga is designed to calm the body and mind. Regular practice of yoga will help in reducing stress, abdominal discomfort and improve the quality of sleep. In the day to day activities, quality of life in the patients with ulcerative colitis has improved with the regular practice of yoga.

Some studies suggest that stress reduction may have direct anti -inflammatory effects, which may explain why yoga reduces disease activity and flares in patients with ulcerative colitis.

Yoga practice improve the stimulation of intestinal function and helps food pass through the digestive tract and better absorption of nutrition. This will help in reducing risk of getting colon cancer and other complications of ulcerative colitis.

Various practice of yogasanas reduces the inflammation of joints and strengthens the muscles. Breathing exercise, pranayama and meditation manages the stress and lifestyle.

Article By :
Dr. Anitha