Introduction
The physical and psychological symptoms of ulcerative colitis may impact sleep quality. To improve sleep quality, try adjusting one's sleeping position, meditating, and adhering to good sleep hygiene. Although ulcerative colitis (UC) is most commonly associated with digestive disorders, it can also have a wide range of other health effects, including sleep disturbances. Finding coping mechanisms is crucial because insufficient sleep can worsen the chance of ulcerative colitis flare-ups and lower the quality of life.
What Is Ulcerative Colitis?
An autoimmune disease, ulcerative colitis is a long-term condition that affects the colon and rectum, resulting in inflammation and the development of ulcers or open sores in the intestinal lining. Severe and frequent diarrhea, discomfort, and blood or pus in the stool are some of the symptoms that define this illness.
Understanding that ulcerative colitis and "colitis" are not synonymous is essential. While ulcerative colitis is a dangerous, chronic illness, colitis is a word used to describe short-term colon inflammation. Ulcerative colitis (UC), a prevalent inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), impacts the large intestine. Crohn's disease, which is the opposite, is another inflammatory bowel disease that can impact any area of the digestive system.
Undiagnosed ulcerative colitis can have a major impact on sleep. Still, it is important to remember that this does not mean that a person will never be able to fall asleep again. Moreover, people with UC may confuse their symptoms for other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (a collection of symptoms affecting the digestive tract known as irritable bowel syndrome) and chronic pain, if a medical professional does not properly treat them.
What Are the Ways to Sleep Better with Ulcerative Colitis?
The following are ways to sleep better with ulcerative colitis:
1. Try Different Sleep Positions:
Depending on the symptoms and which side of the intestines is most inflamed, certain sleeping positions may make ulcerative colitis flares worse. In cases of discomfort, one could consider sleeping on their back or on a different side to see if that helps. Keeping a sleep journal where symptoms and preferred sleeping positions are noted can help monitor what is effective.
2. Use a Heating Pad
Even after changing the sleeping posture or improving the sleep environment, ulcerative colitis pain management can occasionally be difficult. Using heating pads and hot water bottles could help lessen pain and cramps. People with similar circumstances have given positive feedback on these methods. It is crucial to remember that microwaveable heating pads should only be used since they cool down naturally when one goes to sleep, preventing overexposure or prolonged use during the night.
3. Meditate
Meditation might be helpful if one has stomach issues, such as ulcers. Additionally, mindfulness exercises like yoga and tai chi have been shown in some cases of pain connected to ulcerative colitis because of their relaxing effects on the mind-body link. Although research on mindfulness's effects on sleep patterns is ongoing, some may find that this therapy facilitates falling asleep.
4. Eat Healthy Diet
Maintaining a nutritious diet will help one feel better physically and mentally and enhance sleep. Avoid heavy meals and spicy foods before going to bed.
5. Manage Stress
Anxiety can exacerbate ulcerative colitis symptoms and interfere with sleep. Try yoga, meditation, or time in nature as good stress-reduction techniques.
6. Avoid Alcohol and caffeine
Alcohol and caffeine both affect sleep. Keep alcohol and caffeine out of the system for at least six hours before bed.
7. Considering Medication
Some ulcerative colitis drugs, such as corticosteroids, can exacerbate insomnia. If one believes the ulcerative colitis medication is interfering with one's ability to sleep, speak with a doctor about any of the following choices: changing medical interventions, including sleep aids, or altering the time of day that the drug is taken.
8. Practice Good Sleep Habit
Better sleep can be achieved by following regular sleeping habits or "sleep hygiene."
The following are some practices to try, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
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Keep the bedroom dark, cold, and quiet.
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Large meals, alcoholic beverages, and caffeinated beverages should be avoided right before bed.
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Maintain a regular sleep routine, even on the weekends.
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Make time during the day to exercise.
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Remove all electronics from the bedroom, including cell phones.
9. Be wary of Sleep Aids
Over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids are widely accessible. Not all of them, though, are secure for those who have ulcerative colitis. For instance, magnesium is occasionally advertised as a sleep aid.
On the other hand, an excess of magnesium could result in gastrointestinal symptoms like:
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Vomiting.
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Diarrhea.
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Nausea
Seek medical advice before using any over-the-counter sleeping pills, as they may be addictive. Maintain a cool, quiet, dark atmosphere while wearing a sleep mask and earplugs. It will be better if one can take a warm bath right before bed. It is a terrific way to add relaxation to the routine. When one's body temperature rises and falls, it sends a signal to the brain telling it to go to sleep.
10. Set Up a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Even on the weekends, stick to a regular sleep pattern to help the body's internal clock function properly.
Conclusion
Patients with ulcerative colitis may have psychological and physical symptoms that interfere with their ability to fall asleep. Fortunately, numerous techniques can improve the quality of sleep. These could involve utilizing heated pads, changing prescriptions, and maintaining good sleep hygiene. If ulcerative colitis is interfering with sleep, a doctor must be consulted. They can assist in identifying triggers and creating a personalized treatment strategy.
