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Recognizing the Signs: Key Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis
Published: Feb 25, 2024
Ulcerative colitis can cause a range of digestive and systemic symptoms. Recognizing these signs is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
Digestive Symptoms
The hallmark symptoms of ulcerative colitis are diarrhea and rectal bleeding. Patients often experience frequent, loose stools that may contain blood, mucus, or pus. Abdominal pain, especially in the lower left side, is common. Many also feel an urgent need to have a bowel movement and may have tenesmus - a sensation of incomplete evacuation.
Systemic Symptoms
As ulcerative colitis is a systemic inflammatory condition, it can cause symptoms beyond the digestive tract. These may include fatigue, fever, and unintended weight loss. Some patients experience a loss of appetite or nausea. In severe cases, rapid heart rate and anemia due to blood loss can occur.
Extraintestinal Manifestations
Ulcerative colitis can affect other parts of the body. Some patients develop joint pain or arthritis, especially in large joints like knees or elbows. Eye inflammation, skin rashes, and liver problems are also possible. These symptoms may come and go along with intestinal flares or occur independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but it's common and a key sign to discuss with a doctor.
Yes, ulcerative colitis often has periods of flares and remission.
Children may also have growth delays and delayed puberty.
When to Seek Help
If you experience persistent diarrhea, especially with blood, or any combination of these symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation.
References
- Langholz E, et al. Course of ulcerative colitis: analysis of changes in disease activity over years. Gastroenterology 1994; 107:3.
- Monsén U, et al. Extracolonic diagnoses in ulcerative colitis: an epidemiological study. Am J Gastroenterol 1990; 85:711.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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