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Treatment Case of Ulcerative Colitis
Unresponsive to Steroids
The journey to breaking the cycle of recurring relapses and normalizing inflammation levels
Case of a Male Patient in His 30s
Hello. This is HanStep Korean Medicine Clinic, which has been treating ulcerative colitis since 2007. This case is about a male patient in his 30s who suffered from repeated improvements and exacerbations despite steroid treatment.
The patient used 5-ASA preparations (such as Asacol) after his diagnosis in 2023 but experienced a relapse. Subsequently, despite high-dose Solondo (steroid) administration, he saw no improvement in symptoms or endoscopic findings, leading him to visit our clinic in February 2025.
Status at Initial Visit (Feb 2025)
- Key Symptoms: Diarrhea 4–8 times a day, mucous stools, severe abdominal pain, symptoms of adrenal insufficiency
- Test Results: Calprotectin 5,293 (severe inflammation)
- Concomitant Medications: Steroids (Solondo) 40mg, antispasmodics, anticholinergics, etc.
Treating in the order of the underlying causes is key
This patient had a complex interplay of respiratory disease (rhinitis), digestive issues, and inflammation. HanStep Korean Medicine Clinic flexibly adjusted the treatment plan according to the sequence in which the causes manifested: respiratory-focused prescriptions, upper digestive tract prescriptions, and finally, inflammation-focused prescriptions. We resolved the side effects caused by long-term indiscriminate steroid use and normalized his levels by sequentially addressing the root causes.
Step-by-Step Treatment Progress and Outcomes
Breaking Free from Steroid Dependency
Within two months of starting herbal medicine treatment, the patient completely stopped taking steroids. Side effects such as facial swelling and leg weakness disappeared, and he began having normal bowel movements.
Continuous Level Management
The calprotectin level decreased from 5,293 to 22. By alternately managing respiratory and digestive issues, we were eventually able to discontinue all Western medications.
Closing Remarks
Rather than ending treatment as soon as symptoms improve, it is crucial to verify that calprotectin levels remain stable until the very end. HanStep Korean Medicine Clinic stands with our patients until the final moment to ensure a full recovery. For related inquiries, please contact HanStep Korean Medicine Clinic.