Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It can cause various symptoms, which often fluctuate in severity. The most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:.

1. Abdominal pain and cramping

Abdominal pain and cramping are hallmark symptoms of ulcerative colitis. The pain is typically located in the lower abdomen and can range from mild to severe. It may also be accompanied by bloating and discomfort.

2. Diarrhea

Diarrhea is another common symptom. Inflammation in the colon leads to frequent bowel movements and loose, watery stools. Some individuals may experience urgency and an inability to control bowel movements.

3. Rectal bleeding

Ulcerative colitis causes ulcers and inflammation in the lining of the colon and rectum, resulting in rectal bleeding. Blood in the stool may appear bright red, or it may be mixed with the stool and appear dark and tarry.

4. Bloody stools

In addition to rectal bleeding, ulcerative colitis can cause the passage of stools that are mixed with blood or have a reddish appearance. This symptom often causes significant distress and can be a cause for concern.

5. Fatigue

Chronic inflammation and the body’s response to it can lead to fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell. This fatigue may be persistent and impact daily activities and quality of life.

6. Weight loss

Unexplained weight loss can occur in ulcerative colitis. This is often due to a combination of factors, including reduced appetite, malabsorption of nutrients, and increased metabolic demands of the body due to inflammation.

7. Loss of appetite

Inflammation and discomfort in the digestive tract can cause a loss of appetite. Individuals with ulcerative colitis may experience a decreased desire to eat, leading to unintentional weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.

8. Fever

During disease flare-ups, individuals with ulcerative colitis may develop a low-grade fever. Fever is often an indication of increased inflammation and can be accompanied by other systemic symptoms.

9. Joint pain

Joint pain and swelling can occur in individuals with ulcerative colitis. This is known as peripheral arthritis and commonly affects the large joints such as knees, ankles, and wrists. It usually correlates with disease activity.

10. Skin problems

Some individuals with ulcerative colitis may experience skin manifestations such as rashes, sores, or ulcers. These skin problems often occur during disease flares and may be related to the underlying inflammation.

Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis

Diagnosing ulcerative colitis involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Here are the primary methods used to diagnose this condition:.

1. Medical history and physical examination

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and family history of inflammatory bowel disease. They will also perform a physical examination to assess any signs of inflammation or complications.

2. Blood tests

Blood tests can help evaluate the overall health and detect signs of inflammation. Elevated levels of certain markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), may indicate active inflammation in the body.

3. Stool sample analysis

An examination of a stool sample can help rule out other possible causes of symptoms, such as infections or parasites. It can also detect the presence of blood in the stool, which is common in ulcerative colitis.

4. Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a key diagnostic procedure for ulcerative colitis. It involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) into the rectum and colon.

This allows the doctor to visualize the extent and severity of inflammation, as well as to take biopsies for further analysis.

5. Flexible sigmoidoscopy

Similar to colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy involves using a flexible tube to examine the rectum and the lower part of the colon. While it provides a limited view compared to colonoscopy, it can still help diagnose ulcerative colitis.

6. Imaging tests

In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans may be done to evaluate the extent and complications of ulcerative colitis.

These tests can help visualize the entire colon and identify any structural abnormalities.

7. Biopsy

A biopsy involves taking small tissue samples from the lining of the colon and rectum during a colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy.

These samples are then examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis and rule out other conditions.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing ulcerative colitis effectively. If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.