Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that primarily affects the colon and rectum.

It causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the digestive tract, leading to various symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Understanding the symptoms of ulcerative colitis is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of the condition.

1. Abdominal pain and cramping

One of the most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis is abdominal pain and cramping. The pain is often described as a constant ache in the lower abdomen and can range from mild to severe.

Cramping may come and go, and it is usually more intense before a bowel movement.

2. Diarrhea

Another hallmark symptom of ulcerative colitis is diarrhea. The inflammation in the digestive tract leads to increased bowel movements and loose, watery stools. Patients may experience frequent urges to go to the bathroom, even during the night.

3. Rectal bleeding

Rectal bleeding is a significant symptom of ulcerative colitis and occurs due to the ulcers and inflammation in the rectum and colon. Blood may be present in the stool, or there may be noticeable blood on toilet paper after wiping.

4. Urgency to defecate

Individuals with ulcerative colitis often feel an urgent need to have a bowel movement. This urgency can be challenging to control, leading to accidents or an inability to reach the bathroom in time.

5. Fatigue

Chronic inflammation in the body can cause fatigue, even with adequate rest. Fatigue in ulcerative colitis may be related to anemia as a result of rectal bleeding or the body’s immune response to inflammation.

6. Loss of appetite and weight loss

Many individuals with ulcerative colitis experience a loss of appetite, leading to unintentional weight loss.

The combination of reduced food intake and malabsorption due to inflammation can have a significant impact on a person’s nutritional status.

7. Joint pain and swelling

Ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune condition, and it can cause inflammation not only in the digestive tract but also in other parts of the body.

Joint pain and swelling, particularly in the larger joints like knees and ankles, can be associated symptoms.

8. Skin and eye problems

Inflammation in ulcerative colitis can also affect the skin and eyes. Skin conditions like ulcers, rashes, and lesions may develop, along with eye inflammation (uveitis) that can cause redness, pain, and blurred vision.

9. Fever

Some individuals with ulcerative colitis may experience low-grade fever as a result of the body’s immune response to inflammation. Fever is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

10. Difficulty in maintaining hydration

The frequent diarrhea associated with ulcerative colitis can lead to dehydration. It may be challenging to maintain proper hydration levels even with increased fluid intake, and this can further worsen fatigue and overall well-being.