Living with Ulcerative Colitis
PrintLiving with ulcerative colitis means just that—living. Asacol HD can help get your UC symptoms under control, so you can start focusing on more of the things you love to do. When you take steps to take control of your ulcerative colitis symptoms, such as rectal bleeding and stool frequency, you can live your life with UC. Fostering honest relationships with friends and family, learning to cope with stress, and following a healthy, balanced diet are all important elements in your life with UC.
Start with these basic tips for everyday living:
Overcome the Embarrassment Although it can be tough to talk about UC with close family, colleagues, and even your doctor, people understand that your symptoms are a direct result of your condition. Explaining your situation, and even being assertive at times, can help you get through tough situations.
Be Prepared If you're going somewhere unfamiliar, learn where the restrooms are before you're in an urgent situation.
Think: Where am I most likely to find a bathroom? Every place is different, but be on the lookout for:
- Hotels, where restrooms are usually located in the lobby with easy access
- Supermarkets, where restrooms are often in storage or employee areas
- Large chain stores, where restrooms are usually located at the front near the entrance
- Public buildings such as libraries or courthouses
It Never Hurts to Ask When seeking a public restroom, be honest and explain to an employee that you have an urgent condition. While not required by law, if you’re polite and straightforward, you’ll find that most people are understanding.
Be Honest with the Boss It’s important that you have free access to the bathroom whenever you need it, no questions asked. Whether you are a student or an employee, explain your condition to the person in charge.
Eat Foods That Agree with You Learn what types of foods your body can and cannot handle. This can vary for every ulcerative colitis patient, so you may want to keep a food diary to remember which foods agree with you, and which ones do not.
Keep Your Sense of Humor Remember that book by Taro Gomi called Everybody Poops? Keep in mind, when you’re having an uncomfortable or embarrassing moment, that a little laughter can go a long way.
Stay Positive Ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition. But when you learn to keep a positive attitude, it can help you live your life with UC.
For more information on living with ulcerative colitis, and how it can affect your life, see the following articles:
Ulcerative Colitis and Relationships 
Discover how loved ones can have a truly positive impact on managing your disease and returning to the things you love day by day.
Cope with Stress
Learn about the relationship that stress may have on ulcerative colitis.
Your Ulcerative Colitis Diet
Understand how the types of foods you eat can both positively and negatively affect your condition.
Your Doctor and You
Ulcerative Colitis Resources
