My Favorite Ulcerative Colitis Web Sites

I have discovered a wealth of resourceful information concerning ulcerative colitis on the Web, which run the gamut of forms from non-profit organization Web sites with clear-cut outlines and clinical information, to little-known ones crammed with personal accounts, surprising "cures" (and some are) and discourse about the efficacy of the assorted treatments. Read on to find out more about how to find helpful journal articles, message boards and information to help you on your journey to better control of your ulcerative colitis symptoms.

PRIMARY RESOURCES

Medline Plus: Ulcerative Colitis

This not only has great general information, but also various links to informative journal articles. Towards the bottom of the page are even sections for teenagers and children. There is even information about how to apply to Social Security benefits for those who find themselves unable to work because of their ulcerative colitis.

UpToDate Patient has information on the various pharmaceutical treatments that are available for those suffering from ulcerative colitis, and compares their various possible side effects. Though I am not currently taking any medications, this is an interesting read. This website is great for those in search of the latest breakthroughs in medical science. Also, check out the links on the bottom of the page; there are plenty to look through.

CCFA.org (Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America)

This Web site has plenty of information, ranging from that about clinical trials, as well as links to medical organizations. In addition, there are also newsgroups and message boards here. You can even find support groups through this Web site.

National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse

This also has links to clinical trials, as well as some general information.

SECONDARY RESOURCES

Earth Clinic

I have scoured this Web site, which certainly has some interesting ideas for self-treatment. Though usually people do not advocate administering treatments to oneself, I have found that alternative therapies have helped keep my symptoms under control - that is, if I keep at it. Some of the remedies, such as aloe vera juice, exacerbated my symptoms. However, the suggestion to mix sea salt with a whole glass of water on an empty stomach has done wonders for me. As for the baking soda treatment, I do not take it alone, but rather, mix it with either lemon or lime juice (anything acidic). This has been a great tonic to take either before bed or first thing in the morning.

Cure Zone

I browse the forums on this Web site, and have found some valuable, if not obscure, information. This website is like a great big dumpster at times; there is a lot to sort through. However, given the volume of thoughts and reflections upon various conditions that many suffer from, you are apt to find a good number of gems. If you decide to try any of these therapies, choose wisely. I like to find something that interests me, and then to go search on other Web sites for relevant information in order to confirm what's being said on this one. Since quality control on Cure Zone appears to be a bit poor, this way I can ensure that I'm not taking the advice of some internet goon. This is where I learned about oregano oil and olive leaf extract, which have helped me manage my symptoms by destroying any parasites, or the fungi that I believe to be one of the main culprits in my illness. As I said, though, it was only after I researched extensively elsewhere that I decided to try this.