Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers (sores) in your digestive tract. Ulcerative colitis affects the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. Symptoms usually develop over time, rather than suddenly.
ABOUT DISEASE
Ulcerative colitis can be debilitating and can sometimes lead to life-threatening complications. While it has no known cure, treatment can greatly reduce signs and symptoms of the disease and even bring about long-term remission.
Questions to ensure right fit:
Will diet aid in healing? (this is a good way to ask without making them feel threatened. If the answer is no…run!)
How do I contact the office if I’m having problems or complications (do they have an online portal for quick communication?)
How quickly can I be seen in an emergency?
Do you offer alternative methods of healing alongside medicine? (dietary and supplemental approaches to correct deficiencies, alongside more extensive blood work)
How often do you take labs, and what will you be testing for? (Many medications require testing, and many doctors do not keep up with this. It is good to know the doctor’s approach to this, and compare to the medication’s suggestions).
What is your philosophy on colonoscopies? (Routine, or when symptomatic? *compare this to your philosophy)
Do you believe in a bottom-up or top-down approach? *insurance may play a huge part in this* Things to ask on-going
Pre-treatment for infusions (to prevent reactions)
How often do you take labs, and what will you be testing for? *When being placed on a new medication (Many medications require testing, and many doctors do not keep up with this. It is good to know the doctor’s approach to this, and compare to the medication’s suggestions).
Are there certain patients who can eventually be medication free, or do you continue medication for precaution?
SYMPTOMS
+ Diarrhea
+ Constipation (in rare cases)
+ Abdominal cramping and pain
+ Fatigue
+ Fever
+ Blood in stool
+ Fistulas
+ Reduced appetite
+ Anemia
+ Blockages
+ Rectal Pain
+ Very frequent bowel movements
YOUR POINT OF CONTACT

Madison Suttles
ABOUT MADISON | Hi, my name is Madi! I am 23-years-old, and recently graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Human Development. I live in Tennessee, and absolutely love all things outdoors. I am also extremely passionate about holistic health, and providing resources for others through recipes, tips, and encouragement in their journey’s toward health. I love Jesus, and believe my purpose on earth is to share His love, and use my own story and challenges to be an encouragement to others.
AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES | Crohn’s Disease
SPECIALISTS
+ Gastroengtologist
+ Primary Care Doctor
BLOOD TESTS
+ Type of blood test
MEDICATIONS
+Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
+ Antibiotics
+ Anti-inflammatory
+ Immunosuppressive drug,
+ Steroid, Analgesic, and Dietary supplement
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METHODS OF HEALING
Journaling, Yoga, Prayer /Devotions, Meditation, Gaba, Ashwagandha, 5HTP, Fish Oil (correct DHA to EPA), Exercise (what exercise works best for autoimmunity in general? what exercise works best for your body personally?), Infrared Sauna
AUTOIMMUNE RESOURCES
Here are some great websites, authors, podcasts and other resources to help you navigate your Autoimmune Disease.
AUTOIMMUNE STORIES
These are the women that have shared their autoimmune journey with us. Please take a moment to read some of their brave, honest and revealing stories about their diagnosis, successes, hardships and their lives.