YouTube videos support multilingual subtitles. Please turn on subtitles to watch.
Ulcerative Colitis Treatment Case:
The Cycle of Relapse Caused by Alcohol and Complacency
Do not neglect symptoms just because they seem mild. The process of achieving a cure confirmed through endoscopy.
Patient History
Hello. This is HanStep Korean Medicine Clinic, which has been researching and treating ulcerative colitis since 2007. This case involves a young male patient in his 30s who usually experienced bloody stools the day after drinking but dismissed them as insignificant.
Symptoms began in April 2025, and he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis through an endoscopy in July, visiting our clinic on July 26th.
Key Status at Initial Visit
- Bowel Movements: 1-2 normal stools per day
- Bloody Stools: Occurred 3-4 times a month
- Symptoms: Stomatitis when fatigued, indigestion
- Drinking: Usually accompanied by bloody stools after alcohol consumption
The Key to Treatment: Calprotectin and Endoscopy
Calprotectin is a useful biomarker for measuring intestinal inflammation, showing over 80% correlation with endoscopy. However, since there is a 20% exception rate, it is essential to confirm the complete disappearance of inflammation through endoscopy before ending treatment.
Alcohol and Relapse
Alcohol is the most common cause of ulcerative colitis relapse. Abstinence is mandatory during the treatment period; continuing to drink slows down recovery and significantly increases the risk of recurrence.
The Trap of Symptoms
Just because symptoms are not severe does not mean the disease is mild. Rather than dismissing it as simply having a 'weak stomach,' an accurate diagnosis is necessary.
Treatment Results
Through herbal medicine treatment, the patient maintained calprotectin levels within the normal range (3.9–36 points), and a follow-up endoscopy one year later showed no observable multiple inflammatory changes in the rectum, leading to a confirmation of full recovery.
If you have any questions regarding ulcerative colitis, calprotectin, or the relationship between alcohol and relapse, please visit the HanStep Korean Medicine Clinic YouTube channel or use the Inquiry service.