Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. Ulcerative colitis affects the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Symptoms usually develop over time and do not appear suddenly.
Ulcerative colitis can be debilitating and can lead to life-threatening complications. Although the disease has no known cure, treatment can significantly reduce signs and symptoms and may lead to prolonged remission.
Symptoms
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary, depending on the severity of the inflammation and where it occurs. Signs and symptoms may include:
Diarrhea, often with blood or pus
Abdominal pain and cramps
rectal pain
rectal bleeding; A small amount of blood comes out with the stool
Urgent need to defecate
Inability to defecate despite urgent need
Weight loss
fatigue
fever
Failure to thrive in children
Consult a doctor if you notice a persistent change in your bowel habits or if you experience the following signs and symptoms:
Tummy ache
blood in stool
Persistent diarrhea that does not respond to over-the-counter medications
Diarrhea that wakes you from sleep
Fever of unknown cause that lasts more than a day or two
Although ulcerative colitis isn't often fatal, it's a serious illness that, in some cases, can cause life-threatening complications.
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