Patient was educated on lifestyle modifications for managing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease as follows:
- Maintain good hydration status by consuming at least 2.5 to 3 liters of fluid a day, as patients with IBD are at high risk for dehydration.
- Try eating multiple smaller meals a day, instead of big meals, as big meals worsen the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and exhaust the patient.
- Seek a dietician consult and observe compliance with the suggestions made, if the problems continue and weight loss is profound.
- Observe compliance with any anti-inflammatory medications prescribed, to help with relieving pain and swelling of the intestines.
- As stress aggravates the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, incorporating a regular exercise schedule in daily routine, can help manage stress better.
- Consult your physician to check for any intake of iron supplements and vitamin B12, to help with symptoms of anemia.
- Practice deep breathing and relaxation, biofeedback, or yoga for managing stress better, to avoid any aggravation of symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
