Is it normal to cry during ulcerative colitis flares at age 24?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am a 24-year-old woman with ulcerative colitis, and during severe flare-ups, the pain, urgency, and exhaustion can become overwhelming. Is it normal to cry on the toilet during flares at 24?
Sometimes I feel ridiculous afterward, but in the moment, it feels like my body is completely out of control.
Please advise.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I have gone through your query and can understand your concern.
First, it is important to know that stress can worsen the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Therefore, taking care of your emotional well-being is just as important as managing the physical symptoms during flare-ups.
Feelings of being overwhelmed, exhausted, or even crying during severe flare-ups are understandable and can be a natural human response to the pain, discomfort, and loss of control associated with a chronic illness. Many individuals with ulcerative colitis experience emotional distress during periods of disease exacerbation.
However, if emotional difficulties begin to significantly affect your personal, social, or professional life, or if you experience persistent anxiety, depression, or emotional crises, seeking professional help is advisable. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), counseling, and, when appropriate, medication can be beneficial.
Maintaining a balanced lifestyle and managing stress may help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Chronic stress can negatively affect overall health and may contribute to symptom worsening.
Practices such as meditation, light physical activity, talking with trusted family members or friends, deep-breathing exercises, and Jacobson’s progressive muscle relaxation can be helpful during periods of emotional distress.
I hope this information helps.
Take care.
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