What Is Ulcerative Colitis?

Symptoms vary

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary from person to person. Some people have symptoms every few months. Others have them all the time.

The possible symptoms are:

• Cramping stomach pain, especially in the lower belly (abdomen).

• Bloody diarrhea, often with pus or mucus.

• Feeling that you have little warning before you need to have a bowel movement.

• Having to wake from sleep to have bowel movements.

• Weight loss and dehydration.

• Rectal discomfort.

• Fatigue.

Treatment options

Medicines can ease the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Anti-inflammatory medicines are often tried first. You may take these along with medicines that make symptoms less painful by decreasing colon spasms. Medicines may be oral, injected, or infused through an I.V. Many people need to be on medicines long-term to stay healthy and keep symptoms managed.

If you have severe symptoms not controlled by medicines, you may have surgery to remove the colon. You may also have surgery if you have a high risk for colon cancer.

There is no way to prevent ulcerative colitis. Some people can ease their symptoms by not eating certain foods, such as spicy dishes or milk products. Some find less discomfort with bland soft foods.

If you have new symptoms, contact your doctor to see if another treatment can get the problem under control. Common symptoms that need a doctor’s care right away are fever and bleeding from the rectum. A fever could mean infection or a break (rupture) in the intestine.

Tell your doctor if you decide to use complementary or alternative medicine, such as dietary supplements and probiotics. This will help make sure you are getting coordinated, safe care.

Ulcerative colitis calls for long-term management. It can cause physical, financial, and emotional stress to both you and your family. If you or your family members are having trouble coping, ask your doctor for resources. You could see a mental health counselor. Or you could join a local or online support group.

Ulcerative colitis requires people to pay special attention to their health needs. They may often need to seek care. But it doesn’t prevent most people from enjoying productive lives.